METHOD FOR PRODUCING A HYBRID LEAF SPRING

摘要

In a method for making a hybrid leaf spring, at least one layer of composite material (18, 20) is molded onto a metal primary leaf (16) using a mold (14) having an interior cavity (12) defined by at least one cavity wall. Heaters (36) for independently controlling the temperature of the metal primary leaf are also provided with the primary leaf and the layer of composite material being positioned in the mold adjacent to one another. A layer of adhesive (2 6, 28) is positioned between and in engagement with both the layer of composite material and the metal primary leaf. A controller (42) having heating data stored therein is employed to actuate the heater in response to commands generated therefrom causing thermal energy to conduct into the adhesive material and the layer of composite.