How does a composite autoclave work?

The ASC composite autoclave utilizes an advanced control systems called CPC to control the temperature, pressure, vacuum, and cure times based on engineered cure recipes and reading gathered from the sensors that are attached directly to the aerospace composite parts and tools during a cure cycle.

What is autoclave for composites?

In composite technology, autoclaves are pressure vessels used to process parts and materials which require exposure to elevated pressure and temperature for the curing. The pressure is necessary to reach a sufficient level of fiber content and to reduce the residual porosity in the composites.

What is an autoclave and how is it used in the manufacturing of composite structures?

12.4. Autoclave molding is a process of thermoplastic composite manufacture in which the fibrous reinforcement and thermoplastic matrix are laid down on a tool in the desired sequence and spot welded to make sure that the stacked plies do not move relative to each other.

What is autoclave curing?

Autoclave processing is the most common method used for curing thermoset prepregs. In the autoclave process, high pressure and heat are applied to the part through the autoclave atmosphere, with a vacuum bag used to apply additional pressure and protect the laminate from the autoclave gases.

What is curing in composites?

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Curing is a chemical process employed in polymer chemistry and process engineering that produces the toughening or hardening of a polymer material by cross-linking of polymer chains.

What is a curing cycle?

The time/temperature/pressure cycle used to cure a thermosetting resin system of prepreg.

Do you need an autoclave for prepreg?

Using either piece of equipment, curing of prepreg laminates requires precisely controlled temperature (typically 100-150°C), good air circulation and vacuum lines inside the oven or autoclave so that vacuum can be maintained to the part for the duration of the cure.

Which of the following control factors initiates the curing reaction in the autoclave process?

Since the pressure is at the level required by the experiment, the temperature profile by controlling the heat blanket initiates curing.

How is curing done?

It’s done by spraying or sprinkling water or curing agents over the concrete surface to ensure that the concrete surface is continuously moist. Moisture from the body of concrete is retained from evaporating and contributes to the strength-gain of concrete.

What is the curing process?

Curing is a process during which a chemical reaction (such as polymerization) or physical action (such as evaporation) takes place, resulting in a harder, tougher or more stable linkage (such as an adhesive bond) or substance (such as concrete).

What is composite curing?

Composite cure ovens are used for curing, annealing, drying, and hardening synthetic and composite materials. Composite materials can include carbon fiber, polymers, rubbers, and textiles. The materials are bagged and put under a vacuum while being cured.