Characterization of fiber metal laminates, bonding and manufacturing methods

Abstract

Materials having low density combined with superior strength are gaining demand in the field of automobiles, aeronautical and military appliances. Fiber Metal Laminates (FML) is becoming the material of choice for the above mentioned applications because of the ability to tailor it to meet the demands of the end applications. This paper throws light on the commercially available for of FMLs, its production methods, property enhancement and diverse applications. As such Carbon fibre reinforced composite are preferred for making automobile bonnets and fuselage in military aircraft due to the superior strength to weight ratio. On the other hand glass fiber reinforced composite materials are used to manufacture railway locomotive body panels due to the high tensile strength and impact strength. This paper can be used as reference for budding engineers who want to gain first-hand knowledge on FMLs.