Assessment of Replacement of Metal Parts by BFRP Composites into a Highly Efficient Electrical Prototype

• Main Authors: Rosa Marat-Mendes, Diogo Ribeira, Luís Reis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-04-01
• Series: Journal of Composites Science
• Subjects: basalt fiber; manufacture; composite materials; finite element method
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2504-477X/5/4/95

This work intends to evaluate the use of epoxy composite materials reinforced with basalt fibers as replacement to metallic mechanical parts of a highly efficient electrical prototype. The analysis of the behavior of the original metallic bracket was made and an optimization process was carried out in order to achieve the most suitable geometry and stacking sequence if produced in composite material. Finite element analysis using Siemens NX12 and experimental tests to the produced composite part were performed in order to access it. It was verified that the total weight of the composite part shows a 45% reduction. The composite part shows a higher deformation than the metallic one due to basalt fiber’s higher flexibility. However, the advantages added by the new component largely compensate for the disadvantages that may have been added without compromising its performance. Obtained results show that the use of basalt fiber reinforced composites as the material of mechanical parts of a highly efficient electrical prototype that is a good alternative.