Synopsis
Sandwich composite panels offer significant weight-saving potential for rail vehicle car bodies, improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact compared to traditional steel and aluminium structures. These panels can meet structural, acoustic, and thermal requirements while adhering to fire safety standards. Using Granta Edupack’s material database, core and face materials were evaluated based on mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties. Sensitivity analyses revealed that thermal conductivity and elastic modulus are critical factors influencing material selection.

