Abstract
A process simulation model was developed to predict the cure response and temperature gradients that occur in composite laminates during fabrication. Manufacturing processes for corrosion resistant composites can be designed using the model. A one-dimensional heat transfer analysis was used to simulate composite cure. Cure response factors such as the lay-up process, temperature boundary conditions, and the heat generated due to exothermic reaction were considered. The predicted temperature and resin cure gradients can be used to determine residual stresses that cause cracking.
The cure kinetic response and resin shrinkage of a vinyl ester resin were characterized. The effect of partial resin cure caused by low curing temperatures was included in the kinetics model. A computer program was developed to predict the cure response in composite laminates. Temperature response predictions agreed well with results obtained from experiments on a composite nozzle. The process model was used to study the effect of laminate thickness, ambient temperatures, and air cooling on laminate cure response. Residual stresses in the nozzle due to cure temperatures were determined using finite element analysis.
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