Congratulations to our second PhD completion Project 8 Student Simon Inverarity, from RMIT University.

Simon’s PhD focused on investigating novel methods for joining composite to aluminium components. This involved learning new techniques in composite development, computer simulations and failure analysis. His project looked at improving upon the current methods for composite to metal joining, investigating methods such as pinned joints, self-piercing rivets and thermoplastic welding.

Project 8 – Multi Material Joining using 3D Printed Micro Pins
We will create micro-pins with unique geometric design features (e.g. bulb heads, inclined profiles, and waisted cross-sections) to minimise the manufacturing time and increase the structural performance of light alloy-composite joints for vehicle assembly. An adhesive layer can be added and cured as the component goes through the paint oven to further improve the fatigue and crash performance of joints.

Congratulations Simon, what a wonderful achievement!!!