Analysis of the mechanical properties distribution in the vehicle's chassis and outer shell

Abstract

This experimental study aimed to discover the mechanical properties of various car components, from the exterior "outer shell" to the interior "chassis." Therefore, multiple experiments were performed on the front longitudinal member, bumper, B pillar, and the gas cap, such as tensile tests, three-point bending tests, and Vickers hardness tests, to determine their hardness, strength, and ability to resist any kind of deformation and failure. In addition, various stress-strain curves and charts were plotted to represent the results graphically. Eventually, the front longitudinal member, bumper, and B pillar appeared to have higher hardness and strength than the gas cap; therefore, they have high resistance to elastic and plastic deformation and fracture, making them have better mechanical behavior than the gas cap. Notably, the front longitudinal member and bumper are made of medium-carbon steel, while the others are considered low-carbon steel. Hence, they have different microstructures. In the end, it is evident that the chassis is the most robust structure in the vehicle.