Nv Bekaert Sa

Polynorm N. V.

Paul Corscadden

Willem Dekeyser

Jeroen Gallens

Cornelis Gerardus Van Koert

Peter A M Van Damme

Peter Am Van Damme

An impact beam as subject of the invention comprises a polymer matrix and a metal reinforcing structure for impact reinforcement, which metal reinforcing structure comprises at least one woven fabric. The woven fabric comprises metal cords being essentially parallel to each other, and the metal cords are bond to the polymer matrix, so that a load can be transmitted directly between the polymer matrix and the metal cords.

Reinforced impact beam with woven fabric

An impact beam having a polymer matrix and a metal reinforcing structure, the metal reinforcing structure including metal cords that can be made from metal elements having a diameter of 100 &#x3bc;m or more. The polymer matrix can include a thermoplastic material and/or a fiber material, and the metal can be steel, and the metal cords can be parallel to each other. The polymer matrix can include two or more layers that can be made from the same or different material, one of which can be positioned around the surface of the metal cords and can have a mechanical bond with the cord. The invention also includes a method of making the impact beam.

Reinforced impact beam with layered matrix

Reinforced impact beam

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Winsford, United Kingdom

Paul Corscadden