Analysis of the influence of the mold on a thick thermoset composite flange during curing

Abstract

During the curing process of a composite shell, the temperature field of the composite is influenced by the temperature inside the stove, the heat transfer between the mold and the composite, and the heat released by the curing reaction of the resin matrix. In the case of thick-walled shells, the coefficient of heat conduction and the permeability of the composite along the thickness direction are significantly lower than the corresponding values in the plane. Together with the combined action of the mold and the environment, this effect makes the temperature distribution significantly complex. In this paper, a simulation of the curing process was performed by using the finite element method. The distribution and evolution of the temperature field and degree of cure field were simulated. In particular, we assessed the influence of three different mold materials, namely 45# steel, aluminum, and copper, on the temperature field and degree of cure field. The present research provides the theoretical basis and an analytical method for improving the molding efficiency and quality, as well as the design and optimization, of molds.