Search Results

The application of aluminum Body-In-White has several technical barriers in press forming, joining, and chemical conversion treatment processes. Among them, the optimization of joining processes with which structural stiffness and durability will be assured might have the key role for the success of aluminum applications to BIW. In this study, stiffness strength and fatigue strength of BIW joints with aluminum sheets were evaluated as a function of joining methods, such as resistance spot welding and weld bonding, via both experimental and analytical routes(FEM). For the evaluation, single-lap joint and T-shaped joint were made, with each joining method, as variation of pitch, sheet thickness and even materials - steel sheets. Based on the experimental and FEM analysis results, the optimum joining method for the aluminum BIW which is suitable for weight saving and has equivalent stiffness and strength to steel is suggested.

Zinc-Nickel alloy coatings have been used to improve corrosion resistance for automobile bodies. It has been reported that the coated layer with γ phase in the range of 9-17wt% Ni provides superior corrosion resistance. However, this improved corrosion resistance normally accompanies easy delaminating of the coated layer, even by the tiny foreign impact, such as small stones of the road. In this study, the chipping resistance of 9-19wt% Ni-Zn electroplated steel sheets was examined, in terms of Ni content in the coated layer, and the influence of testing temperature. SEM fractographs and metallographs were employed to discuss the coating morphology and microstructures in the as-deposited and chipping tested conditions.