TSA infrared measurements for stress distribution on car elements

Abstract. Because of the continuous evolution of the market in terms of quality and performance, the car production industry is being subjected to more and more pressing technological challenges. In this framework the use of an advanced measurement technique such as thermoelasticity allows the engineers to have a fast and reliable tool for experimental investigation, optimization and validation of the finite element method (FEM) of those critical parts, such as parts of car-frame tables (Marsili and Garinei, 2013; Ju et al., 1997). In this work it is shown how the thermoelastic measurement technique can be used to optimize a Ferrari car frame, as a method of experimental investigation and as a technique of validation of numerical models.

The measurement technique developed for this purpose is described together with the calibration method used in the test benches normally used for fatigue testing and qualification of this car's components. The results obtained show a very good agreement with FEM models and also the possibility of experimentally identifying the concentration levels of stress in critical parts with a very high spatial resolution and testing the effective geometry and material structure.