Bending Collapse Behaviors and Energy Absorption Characteristics of Aluminum-GFRP Hybrid Tube Beams

Bending collapse behaviors and energy absorption characteristics of aluminum-GFRP hybrid tube beams were evaluated by using experimental tests combined with theoretical analysis. Hybrid tube beams composed of glass fiber-epoxy layer wrapped around on aluminum tube were made in autoclave with the recommend curing cycle. The hybrid tube beams showed a considerable improvement in their bending performance. The maximum bending moment and specific energy absorption of the hybrid tubes were higher than those of the aluminum tubes. They were also evaluated as a function of ply orientation and thickness of GFRP layer. A modified theoretical model was developed to predict the resistance to the collapse of hybrid tube beams subjected to a bending load. Theoretical ultimate bending moments and moment-rotation angle curves of hybrid tube beams were in good agreement with experimental ones. Hybrid tube beams strengthened by GFPR layer with 90°/0° and 45°/-45° ply orientation showed an excellent bending strength and energy absorption capability, respectively. Therefore, on the basis of above results, it was concluded that aluminum-GFRP hybrid tube beams might be employed as reinforcing and/or energy absorbable light weight space frame.