Prof. Lucas da Silva (University of Porto, Portugal)

Abstract:

The increasing use of composite materials in mechanical devices such as aircraft, cars, trains, ships, etc. has led to a rapid development of adhesive bonds which is accepted as the most efficient method for bonding composites. It is thus expected that in the coming years this method of joining will have an application similar to conventional joining methods (e.g., screws, rivets, solder). The Advanced Joining Processes Unit (AJPU) of the Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering (INEGI) is manly focussed on adhesive joints, but other methods of joining such as laser welding, friction stir welding and joining by plastic deformation are also investigated and developed. Advanced joining techniques that enable optimised manufacturing and more efficient structures are certainly to be considered when Industry 4.0 is concerned. The work is based on experimental tests supported by a theoretical analysis with analytical models, and the finite element method. Fundamental research projects such as functionally graded joints or fracture envelope as a function of mode mixity will be presented along with more applied case studies.