Thermomechanical characterization of metal-polyurethane bonded joints: effect of manufacturing parameters and working temperature

Metal-elastomer bonded joints are typical of different industrial applications, specifically pallet truck wheels, where the solid elastomeric layer is bonded to the metal body. This paper focuses on the effect of manufacturing parameters and working temperature, on the shear strength of a metal-elastomer bonded joint. Through a comprehensive experimental test plan, the paper investigates the effect of thermal conditioning of the adhesive, shot peening of the metal adherend, type of solvent-based adhesive, and working temperature of the joint. The test plan uses a TAST-like specimen with a sandwich configuration (metal-elastomer-metal), loaded in order to originate a nearly pure-shear stress state. The results show which parameters influence most the shear strength of the joint helping the designer in maximizing the load-carrying capacity of the joint.