THERMOPLASTIC COMPOUND COMPRESSION MOLDING

摘要

Thermoset compound compression molding is a well-known process to cost effectively produce thermoset composite parts which are either too complex for continuous fibers or do not need continuous fibers. The mold is set at a constant elevated temperature, which cures the thermoset resin during the press cycle.rnThe compression molding of Thermoplastic compounds a new technology. Thermoplastic materials require a temperature cycle at much higher temperatures than thermosets. They are used in the aerospace market on an increasing scale in an effort to reduce cost. To further reduce costs, the thermoplastic component can be assembled by co-curing or by welding.rnThe compression molding of thermoplastic compounds has been investigated in collaboration with the National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR), Ten Cate Advanced Aerospace Composites and Stork Fokker AESP B.V..rnTo prevent a long press cycle by the required heating and cooling of the complete mold, a two press process has been investigated. A low heat capacity inner mold is moved from a heated outer mold press to a cooler outer mold press. The use of two presses prevents the energy usage to heat or cool a single press and limits the cycle time to about ten minutes.