Manufacturing Methods for Carbon Fiber/Polyimide Matrix Composites

Abstract

High-temperature processing of polyimide matrix/carbon fiber composites has required the development of new and innovative tooling approaches, manufacturing methods, and material processing. This paper describes several tooling approaches, including the use of ceramic, molded graphite, and metallic tool surfaces, and the criteria for selection of each. The influence of different thermal coefficients of expansion on tool material selected and geometric restraints is explored.

Consideration is given to the ultimate production process to be used, i.e. press molding, autoclave molding, and hydroclave molding. The use of alternative, energy efficient tooling methods such as internally heated tools and part peculiar heating blankets is illustrated. Tool design solutions to minimize the loss of heat during high-temperature processing are given.

Selected case histories of varied designs are examined in detail. The rationale for the manufacturing-tooling-processing approach is given, as well as the results of tests on the end item.