AUTOCLAVE CURING OF THERMOSETTING COMPOSITES - PROCESS MODELING FOR THE CURE ASSEMBLY

The heat transfer process involved in the autoclave curing of fiber-re inforced thermosetting composites is investigated numerically. In the analysis, the cure assembly is assumed to consist of a tool plate, com posite laminate, and bleeder/vacuum bag. Thus, the heat transfer betwe en the composite and the autoclave environment takes place through mat erials of different thermal properties. The temperature distribution t hus obtained is utilized in conjunction with the models formulated by Loos and Springer [2] to calculate the cure parameters such as degree of cure, resin viscosity, and ply compaction. Four important issues ar ise from the process control and optimization (i.e., the effects of he ating rate, laminate thickness, bleeder material, and convective heati ng) are addressed in this study. Based on the results obtained, recomm endations for possible process improvement are made.