Tool interface pressure during the forming of model composite corners

A new experimental technique is proposed to measure the pressure gradient in corner laminates with the aim of guiding manufacturing practices that can produce composites laminates to the desired thickness. A pressure mapping sensor was placed between a metal mould tool and a silicone sheet that acts as an idealised composite part. The compaction pressure loss in internal corners and rise in external corners is reported for the first time, covering a part thickness to radius ratio of 0.2 to 0.8 in the corner. A conclusive trend was observed in internal corners, where the pressure drop increases proportionally with the thickness to radius ratio. The sensor thickness, bulk, and contact with the tool created difficulties in measuring the true extent of the pressure rise for external corners. Stretchable thin film sensors might provide better alternatives for future studies looking to investigate pressure gradients in doubly curved geometries.

Automated summary

This study introduces a new experimental technique to measure pressure gradient in corner laminates and investigates the compaction pressure loss and rise in internal and external corners. It reveals that in internal corners, pressure drop increases proportionally with the thickness to radius ratio, while measuring the true extent of pressure rise in external corners remains challenging. Stretchable thin film sensors may offer better alternatives for future studies on pressure gradients in doubly curved geometries.