DIAPHRAGM FORMING OF THERMOSET PREPREG

摘要

A mini-autoclave (Pressclave [4]) has been used to form Cycom 977-3 prepreg into a hemispherical cavity. Experiments have been conducted on laminates with variations in thickness and varying temperatures during the forming phase. The effect of forming temperature and diaphragm types on inter- and intraply fibre buckling, deformation of fibre yarns, and diaphragm wrinkling has been investigated. Furthermore, formed samples have been examined for voids and variations in thickness. Both [0/90]° and quasi-isotropic laminates with up to 16 layers have successfully been formed without inter- and intraply fibre buckling, but diaphragm buckling did occur. Diaphragm buckling increased with thinner and less stiff diaphragms. Diaphragm forming formed 977-3 parts did not reveal voids.