Mechanical joining technology between metal and carbon fiber reinforced polymers through punching

Abstract

The joint between different lightweight materials plays a significant role in multi-material design of structural components for automotive industry, aiming to reduce the vehicle’s weight without compromising performance or safety. Yet, conventional mechanical joining technologies between metals and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) either create the need of drilling a hole in the composite material, leading to damages which reduce the load bearing capacity, or increase the weight of the part due the incorporation of fasteners. At the same time, alternative mechanical joining methodologies involve complex and costly processing, compromising their industrial application.