Thermal model for cracked structures repaired with composite patches

A finite element model is presented for examining the thermal history of ad hesively bonded composite patches during and after cure. Transient heat con duction equations are solved to evaluate the temperature distribution in th e system, especially during the postcure cooling process to obtain an accur ate evaluation of the postcure thermal residual stresses. An example is pre sented showing the importance of the thermal evaluation, comparisons with p revious studies are made to validate the model, and a simple thermal design study is presented. This model is intended for use in conjunction with a m echanical stress analysis model.