Materials for Automobile Bodies

The selection of automobile body materials is fundamental to the choice of fabrication method, and the characteristics and performance of the final vehicle or component. The factors behind these choices comprise some of the key technological and design issues facing automotive engineers today.

Materials for Automobile Bodies presents detailed up-to-date information on material technologies for the automobile industry, embracing steels (including high-strength steels) aluminium, plastics, magnesium, hydro-forming and composite body panels. Coverage also includes: materials processing; formability; welding and joining; anti-corrosion technologies; plus a comprehensive consideration of the implications of materials selection on these processes. Dealing with the whole assembly process from raw material to production, right through to recycling at the end of a vehicle's life, this book is the essential resource for practising engineers, designers, analysts and students involved in the design and specification of motor vehicle bodies and components.

"Geoff Davies has produced an intelligent and well-argued discussion of a range of materials for car bodies. The book is written in a style which reflects his deep knowledge of the subject, incorporating aspects of science, engineering and economics."—Phase Transformation & Complex Properties Research Group, University of Cambridge, UK

"...a thoroughly useful book which I think is essential reading for anyone involved in the development or use of materials for automobiles. Undergraduates would find it an important reference book...For the teacher, the book contains stories which can be used to illustrate lectures and make them more meaningful to the audience. I like the book and wholeheartedly recommend it."—Phase Transformation & Complex Properties Research Group, University of Cambridge, UK