Importance

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Abstract

A composite, light weight vehicular bumper material is disclosed which has a surface layer of stainless steel, a principal layer of a heat treatable aluminum and an intermediate layer of essentially commercially pure aluminum. The stainless steel provides the desired surface finish and durability; the surface can be flash chromed if desired to provide a suitable bright, specular appearance. The layer of heat treatable aluminum is the principal structural component and provides the high ratio of strength to weight needed for the application. The intermediate layer of pure aluminum serves as a transition zone between the principal and surface layers aiding in the development of the maximum bond strength between those two components. In its application the composite is heat treated to obtain desired mechanical strength characteristics. In a second embodiment another layer of essentially commercially pure aluminum is provided on the reverse side from the surface layer of stainless steel, enhancing the corrosion resistance of the principal aluminum layer. All the layers are metallurgically bonded to one another.

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First Claim