A two-dimensional flow model for the process simulation of complex shape composite laminates

A numerical flow-compaction model is developed and implemented in a finite element code to simulate the multiple physical phenomena involved during th e autoclave processing of fibre-reinforced composite laminates. The model i s based on the effective stress formulation coupled with a Darcian flow the ory. A Galerkin approach is employed to discretize the weak form of the gov erning equations. The current formulation successfully describes the compac tion behaviour of complex shape laminates caused by flow of the resin. A pa rametric study is performed to investigate the effect of the material prope rties on the compaction of angle-shaped composite laminates. It is found th at the fibre bed shear modulus significantly affects the compaction behavio ur in the corner sections of curved laminates while the resin viscosity and fibre bed permeability affect the compaction rate of the laminate. Copyrig ht (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.