Compression Molding Cure Cycle Modelling and Optimization for Large Polymeric Composite Parts Processing

Abstract:

In order to improve quality and productivity of polymeric composites production we suggest the technique of process simulation and optimization for large parts manufactured by compression molding. Optimal process design includes coupled heat transfer / thermo kinetic cure process formulation, its three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) implementation, its transient analysis at the parameterized thermal control law, and Pareto-based optimization, at which we determine control law parameters ensuring minimum standard deviations of the degree of cure within the cured body. We illustrate this approach via examples of two distinct cases of closed mould design concepts: one for moulds heated in autoclaves by the pressurized heated gas, which acts on the mould surface almost uniformly, and another for moulds with independently controlled built-in electrical heaters such as strip heaters or heated platens that are positioned along the length of the die at locations determined by structural features of the cured part. The suggested approach makes the process design more predictable, easier, faster, and more reliable. It can be adapted to specific manufacturing conditions and allows optimizing tools design and processing conditions before the mould and process control are made.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volume 772)
• Pages: 257-262
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.772.257
• Online since: July 2015
• Authors: I.V. Tarasov, Sergey Shevtsov, I.V. Zhilyaev, E.E. Orozaliev
• Keywords: Aircraft Composite Parts, Autoclave System, Closed-Die Cure Process, Composite Manufacturing Process, Epoxy-Based Composites, Finite-Element Modeling, Optimal Control

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