I analyzed the material performance of an A36 steel car ramp with a focus on strength, heat treatment, corrosion resistance, and environmental impact. Using materials science principles, I explored alternative materials to improve durability and sustainability while maintaining structural safety.
FEA simulations were performed in SolidWorks to evaluate stress and deformation in the ramp under the load of a typical passenger vehicle. This analysis established the structural requirements and performance limits that any alternative material would need to meet.
Based on the structural requirements identified through FEA, the ramp was redesigned using Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), a lighter and corrosion-resistant material with improved environmental characteristics. Material properties such as tensile strength and stiffness were assessed to confirm that the PMMA design could safely support the required loads while reducing weight and eliminating corrosion concerns.