Improvement of mechanical properties and mechanism analysis of FMLs by ultrasonic vibration assisted hot press forming

The low forming quality of fiber metal laminates (FMLs) limits their application in the aerospace field. As a fundamental research, FMLs high-quality forming process provides key technical support for FMLs engineering applications. In this study, an advanced process of ultrasonic vibration assisted hot press forming (UAHPF) of FMLs is proposed. The specially forming mold of UAHPF was designed and manufactured. Mechanical properties of FMLs were tested. UAHPF increased the tensile strength, bending strength, and shear strength of the FMLs by 13.09%, 11.97%, and 49.51% under the optimal process parameters, respectively. In comparison to traditional forming, UAHPF markedly diminished internal defects in FMLs, augmented the metal-fiber contact area, and narrowed the width of the fiber-resin gap. This novel process is a convenient and effective way to enhance the mechanical properties of FMLs. Improvement of mechanical properties and mechanism analysis of FMLs by ultrasonic vibration assisted hot press forming.