Joining of cellular and stratified laminates for light weight construction and thermal–acoustic insulation

The cellular and stratified (C&S) laminates are new steel sandwich structures with a core made of a corrugated sheet. This structure claims to be appropriate for high mechanical load and have a good isotropic behaviour with regard to bending and torsion moment. Their structural and functional features will make them competitive in the fields of light weight construction as well as thermal and acoustic insulation. In order to avoid adhesive joining, the investigations were focused on an appropriate joining technique with regard to high stiffness and strength. Low warping as well as one-sided high optical quality in a visible area are also important. Furthermore, the aim of the joining technique is a fast and reliable industrial joining process for large-scale laminates. Three different joining techniques have therefore been compared; laser beam welding, resistance welding and furnace (vacuum) brazing. At the end of this paper, the joined laminates will be compared concerning their mechanical properties with regard to strength, stiffness, warping and corrosion resistance.