Experimental Study of Impact Energy Absorption in Aluminium Square Tubes with Thermal Triggers

This study presents an approach for the improvement of crashworthiness properties of aluminium tubular structures using initiators introduced through localized heating. The main objective of this approach is to improve the ability to absorb impact energy in a progressive and controlled manner by a local modification of material properties. Through a localized heating in areas previously chosen for initiation, associated with the softening of the aluminium alloy the deformation can be introduced precisely, forcing the tubular structure to deform in a mode of high energy absorption and reducing the maximum load in a controlled manner. This study presents the properties for an aluminium alloy 6061-T5 modified by thermal treatment by the use of a laser beam. Experimental results are presented of quasi-static and impact tests of tubular structures using the proposed approach. This concept appears as possible and effective in the experimental work presented.