Question

1. Identify four new materials in modern automotive industries that were introduced in the last twenty years or so that were not used before. Specify the parts made of these materials. 2. Briefly describe the compositions of the above mentioned materials/parts (Four materials)

3. Briefly mention how these (four) materials/parts are being made 4. Briefly describe how effective the above mentioned materials are in fulfilling the needs and improving the performance.

Answer 1

1. A combination of steel, aluminium and carbon fibre reinforced plastic is used in modern cars. In carbon finer based composites, carbon fibre is the reinforcements used. They are manufactured by composites manufacturing methods. They are used in roof beams, door sills B pillars etc. They reduces weight any provide high specific strength and hence increases fuel efficiency.

2. Ceramic particulate reinforced metal matrix composites are used in brake pads. It reduces wear, increases service temperature. E.g..Al 90wt%-SiC10wt% metal matrix composite. These materials can be produced by powder metallurgy, stir casting etc.

3. Steel wheels have been replaced by alloy wheels made if Al and Mg alloys. They are effective in conduction of heat and lighter in weight. Forging, High pressure forecasting are some of the methods to manufacture them.

4. Air bag was not there in old cars. It enhances passenger safety. The bag is made of my line, a polymer. The heart of air bag is filled with NaN3. It has an air bag module, crash sensor and a diagnostic unit