A laser tape placement process for selective reinforcement of steel with CF/PA6 composites: Effects of surface preparation and laser angle. (15th February 2017) - Stokes-Griffin, C.M.
Abstract: This paper investigates the manufacture of selectively reinforced hybrid metal/composite laminates in a laser tape placement process. Unidirectionally reinforced carbon fibre/PA 6 composite tapes were applied to 2.0mm mild steel substrates. The effects of applying various surface treatments to the steel substrates were investigated including grit blasting and/or the addition of 60μm and 100μm PA 6 film coatings. The effect of the laser angle was also studied. The substrate surface was characterised by profilometry, SEM and optical absorptance. The interfacial bond strength of the hybrid laminates was determined by ASTM D 5868 lap shear tests. Placement onto PA 6 coated substrates was successful with lap shear strengths as high as 30.7MPa achieved for grit blasted substrates coated with a 100μm PA 6 film. The process was found to have a low sensitivity to laser bias angle. Graphical Abstract: Highlights: Laser tape placement demonstrated for reinforcement of steel with CF/PA6 composites Abrasion and coating of substrates with a PA6 film significantly increase laser absorption and lap shear strength. Robust process with low sensitivity to PA6 coating thickness and laser angle