Hi everyone,
I've been designing a chassis for a project I've got on my hands. The car, when finished, will be a summer daily driver. Until recently, I was convinced that the only practical alternative for the project was a space frame. I came across some information on honeycomb that has really piqued my interest. The material seems perfect for the type of vehicle I'm working on, but I have a few questions I can't find answers to. With all the varied and knowledgeable forum members, I figure someone has the answers.
First, how durable are chassis using honeycomb panels and epoxy? I'm looking for the chassis design to last atleast ten years of 'normal' driving. Can I depend on the (properly created) epoxied joints to stand up for this length of time? I know riveted structures tend to loosen some over time. Does the same happen for epoxy joints?
My present thoughts are to have front and rear space frames for the suspension/engine to attach to, that simply bolt up to the honeycomb chassis. This seems like a more durable setup. Am I just as well off going full honeycomb?
Any references out there that talk more about all the ins and outs of chassis construction with honeycomb? I've looked a fair amount, but have found little in the way of details. I've run across one reference that talks about proper reinforcement of epoxied seams and dealing with 'point' loads applied to the chassis (Tony Pashley). It would be nice to have corroborating info.
I'll keep combing the 'net for info, but any help would be greatly appreciated.
Aaron
I've been designing a chassis for a project I've got on my hands. The car, when finished, will be a summer daily driver. Until recently, I was convinced that the only practical alternative for the project was a space frame. I came across some information on honeycomb that has really piqued my interest. The material seems perfect for the type of vehicle I'm working on, but I have a few questions I can't find answers to. With all the varied and knowledgeable forum members, I figure someone has the answers.
First, how durable are chassis using honeycomb panels and epoxy? I'm looking for the chassis design to last atleast ten years of 'normal' driving. Can I depend on the (properly created) epoxied joints to stand up for this length of time? I know riveted structures tend to loosen some over time. Does the same happen for epoxy joints?
My present thoughts are to have front and rear space frames for the suspension/engine to attach to, that simply bolt up to the honeycomb chassis. This seems like a more durable setup. Am I just as well off going full honeycomb?
Any references out there that talk more about all the ins and outs of chassis construction with honeycomb? I've looked a fair amount, but have found little in the way of details. I've run across one reference that talks about proper reinforcement of epoxied seams and dealing with 'point' loads applied to the chassis (Tony Pashley). It would be nice to have corroborating info.
I'll keep combing the 'net for info, but any help would be greatly appreciated.
Aaron