Polymer matrix composite pushrod

Abstract

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a polymer matrix pushrod comprising a composite rod having an annular collar affixed over each end portion of the composite rod and an endcap affixed at each end. The composite rod comprises a thermosetting polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers within the polymer matrix.

1 . A pushrod comprising: 
 a composite rod comprising a thermosetting polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers within the polymer matrix;    a sleeve affixed over the outside surface of the composite rod; and    an endcap affixed at each end of the composite rod, wherein the fibers are selected from the group consisting of those fibers which comprise polycrystalline ceramics, boron, silicon carbide, aromatic polyamides, and combinations of such fibers.    
   
   
       2 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein the composite rod is hollow.  
   
   
       3 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein the composite rod is solid.  
   
   
       4 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein the fibers are substantially continuous.  
   
   
       5 . The pushrod of  claim 4  wherein the substantially continuous fibers are unidirectionally aligned substantially parallel to the central axis of the composite rod.  
   
   
       6 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein fibers have a tensile modulus of at least about 380 MPa.  
   
   
       7 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein the sleeve is a metal sleeve.  
   
   
       8 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein the sleeve is a non-metallic sleeve.  
   
   
       9 . The pushrod of  claim 1  wherein the composite rod has a compression strength of at least about 1030 MPa.  
   
   
       10 . A pushrod comprising: 
 a composite rod having first and second ends and first and second end portions comprising a thermosetting polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers within the polymer matrix;    an annular collar affixed over each end portion of the composite rod; and    an endcap affixed at each end of the composite rod, wherein each of the collars has a tapered end.