Increased load bearing capacity of mechanically joined FRP/metal joints using a pin structured auxiliary joining element

Due to their excellent mechanical properties, fiber-reinforced plastics are increasingly being used in technical lightweight products. The multi-material design of fiber-reinforced plastic and metal leads to great lightweight constructions because the potential of the materials can be efficiently used for the specific field of application. This restricts conventional thermal joining technologies and shows the demand for cost-effective and efficient mechanical and adhesive joining technologies. This paper depicts the development of a new type of auxiliary joining element with integrated pin structures whose purpose is to increase the load-bearing capacity of mechanically joined fiber-reinforced plastic/metal combinations. In addition, the hole area of the fiber-reinforced plastic can be relieved in this way by transferring the operating loads into the laminate via the pin structures. In addition to experimental studies of the application methodology, the quasi-static and dynamic load-bearing capacity will be investigated. This paper presents detailed information about the development of the new auxiliary joining element and the characteristics of the joints, including corrosion effects generated by a corrosion camber.