Precisely Adjustable Inserts for Stiffness-Driven CFRP Sandwich Structures

Abstract

Carbon fiber reinforced plastic application, as a substitute for more traditionally applied materials like steel and aluminum, allows for combining lower mass with higher stiffness, and thus an increase in performance of highly-dynamic multiaxial testing machines. A novel through-the-thickness insert was developed to allow load transfer in stiffness-driven CFRP sandwich structures. The insert consists of two parts, is machined with an economical turning process, and features a fine thread which allows it to be accurately tuned, compensating for any potential CFRP sandwich thickness variations. The insert's external surfaces can be milled, meeting the tolerances needed for mating with other components.