Semester

Summer

Date of Graduation

2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Committee Chair

Ken Means.

Abstract

As research has developed advancement in composites, they are increasingly being used as components in dynamic situations, e.g. suspension members. Previously used alloy materials are being replaced. Current research has led to developments in attaching aluminum to the composite. This new material is often referred to as a hybrid composite.;Hybrid composites used as suspension components become popular for their increased design flexibility. In this thesis, the shock mounting point was of the concern. It was found that the weak link in the hybrid aluminum/composite attachment is the bond between the aluminum and the epoxy.;Experiments and research led to advancements and conclusions on maximizing the strength of attaching an aluminum plate to a carbon/epoxy composite. As research continues the benefits of composites are seen. Specifically enhanced properties and weight reduction of these modern hybrid components offer the advantages worthy of researching this topic.

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