Induction curing of high-temperature matrices

Purpose and goal

The goal of testing and evaluating induction heating and curing of carbon fiber laminates with high temperature stable matrices has been met. The project has demonstrated technology for, carbon-fiber reinforced Polyimide. The purpose of testing and demonstrating the technology in the project has been to create a knowledge base to be able to proceed with full-scale tests in later collaboration projects. Performed lab tests confirm that the technology provides a Tg in line with previous research projects for hardening polyimide.

Expected results and effects

An experimental press tool has been developed based on ceramic material with controlled induction heating. This has been tested up to 440 C. Curing cycles for carbon reinforced polyimide have been demonstrated where the highest holding temperature was 440 C. Trials have also been made on high temperature-stable thermoplastics. Carbon fiber reinforced PEEK has been consolidated at 380 ° C and polyamide (PA12) at 200 ° C with promising results. The expected effect of exploiting the technology is that very energy efficient and rapid heating systems for composite products are obtained.

Planned approach and implementation

Trials have been made in lab scale where design and production of experimental tools with silicon carbide press surfaces are included. The electrical properties of the material have been measured to simulate and optimize the inductor. Test runs of the various composite materials have been run on 200 x 200 mm pieces. The results have been evaluated both visually and with dynamic mechanical analysis (DMTA). The biggest challenge in the project has been to get the included materials in the experimental tool to handle both the thermal and mechanical loads in the tests.