Design with Reinforced Plastics

Frontmatter

chapter 1. Conceptual design considerations

Abstract

This chapter considers the properties that make fibre reinforced plastics attractive to the designer, and outlines their advantages and disadvantages. It goes on to discuss the development of design concepts, working from a design brief and performance specification, with descriptions of specific examples.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 2. Embodiment design considerations

Abstract

This chapter sets out a design method which takes account of the properties and peculiarities of fibre reinforced plastics. It suggests how to approach the design process, and how to select appropriate materials and manufacturing methods. It then goes on to discuss jointing and costs.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 3. Detailed design considerations

Abstract

In detailing the design, further consideration must be given to aspects which differentiate reinforced plastics from other types of materials. The extra freedom that the materials allow the designer, in terms of shape and form, has to be balanced by the need to ensure that there is sufficient reinforcement present to withstand loads. Other properties can be tailored to the needs of the design by varying the nature and type of reinforcement.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 4. Safety, standards and codes

Abstract

The formation of the single European market will permit the free movement of goods, services, people and capital throughout the European Community and EFTA countries. Product liability, safety, regulations, codes and standards are considered and the way in which these apply to a product or structure. One aspect considered in some detail is that of fire safety.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 5. Materials and properties

Abstract

This chapter provides a brief overview of the types and properties of individual constituents of reinforced plastic materials. These are not necessarily the starting points in a design, so a similar survey is made of semi-processed materials such as fabrics, moulding compounds and prepregs.

The chapter also looks at the behaviour of a typical fibre reinforced plastic to highlight the differences between such materials, plastics and metals.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 6. Manufacturing considerations

Abstract

When using reinforced plastics, the material is manufactured at the same time as the component, so selecting a suitable manufacturing process is crucial for the success of the design. In this chapter, a table is used to select the appropriate production process. Each process is then described in detail so that the initial choice can be checked against a summary table of advantages and disadvantages.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 7. Testing and standards

Abstract

This chapter describes test methods and standards for reinforced plastics and composites, their component fibres and resin matrices. Testing at the sub-component, component and system levels are discussed, together with a brief review of non-destructive test methods. Published standards are listed in each section, with preference given to international standards.

Rayner M. Mayer

chapter 8. Design studies

Abstract

This chapter provides four brief design studies which highlight different stages and aspects of designing with reinforced plastics, following the methods outlined in the earlier part of the book.

The golf club study is conceptual only; the road wheel illustrates the constraints of replacement design; the suspension arm demonstrates how new concepts can be developed; and the tennis racket study shows how imaginative processing and design can allow comparatively expensive materials to be used in marketable products.

Rayner M. Mayer

Backmatter