Results of testing a lenticular coating block support unit

Abstract

The paper aims to study options for connecting belt elements from a profiled sheet, to develop a technology for manufacturing support units and to determine their load-bearing capacity by testing nodal elements with connecting sheets using electric rivets and soldering pre-rolled profiled sheets. An experimental study of nodal elements was performed in a vertical position on a test bench. Fragments of the support assembly with a seam-soldered connection and with the connection of belt elements using contact spot welding were tested. It is shown that seam-soldered joints provide the necessary strength thus being suitable as a basis for the flawless manufacture of an experimental unit. For welding connection, two options of the support unit were considered, i.e. with plastic support ribs and without ribs. The junction of profiled sheets using electric rivets is more technologically advanced than a seam-soldered joint. The conducted tests elaborated the proposed design solution and the method of manufacturing the connection of profiled sheets (support units). Tests of operability, reliability and strength of this junction with various connections were carried out.