Evaluation of thermal-stress-induced deformations in thin ply composite structures

Purpose and goal

The main purpose of this project was to study the effect of using a thin-layer prepreg on the L-shaped structure after curing. Structures with different thicknesses of the same material were tested and the results evaluated.

Expected results and effects

This study provided an insight to the behaviour of thin ply composites under nominal manufacturing conditions. The results strengthened OXEON´s portfolio and contributed towards a better understanding of the material´s behavior during curing. This is important input when designing new structures. Needless to say that the results of this study set this material as more desirable for direct industrial use.

Planned approach and implementation

Five different cases were evaluated (one more than originally planned) and all samples were tested with the ATOS system. We discovered that materials with lower areal weights generally lead to lower spring-back effects. This pre-study indicated that thin-ply prepregs have the potential to substitute normal prepreg material and also improve the design, as lower springback effects were observed.