In a message dated 11/10/02 22:49:58 GMT Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> Can anybody recomend a minimum tubing size, or a good book (or website) > to read on roll cage design? >From the RAC motorsports yearbook; Cold drawn seamless carbon tube, minimum yield strength 350N/mm2 Minimum dimensions; 45mm dia, 2.5mm wall or 50mm dia, 2mm wall. These requirements are based on those of the FIA. Steer clear of composite crash structures unless you have FEA and are prepared to do destructive testing. Whilst I have seen very safe composite structures (there have been quite a few fiberglass monocoque kitcars over the years) most have been only slightly lighter than steel monocoque construction and often heavier. It was interesting to read recently that when a batch of tubs for a spec. chassis single seater race series were tested for torsional stiffness, there was a 200% difference between the best and worse. It has been proposed that composite tubs be banned in the lower formulae where for cost reasons the tub cannot be dumped after any damage. Paul Compton BVS technical officer www.bvs.org.uk www.sciroccoev.co.uk
