Experimental investigation of thermoset composite laminates manufactured with a novel sheet-winding compression-molding (SWCM) process

The carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) tubular structure is suitable for aircraft and aerospace applications requiring strong axial strength and moderate thermal expansion. However, utilizing CFRP tubular constructions necessitates the addition of end-fitting components, which introduces new problems, such as adhesion. This study presented a novel two-step sheet-winding compression-molding (SWCM) process for fabricating integral thermosetting CFRP tubular-bar structure elements, which could be further drilled into a tubular-lug structural element. The influence of the proposed SWCM technique on the curing of the epoxy prepregs is demonstrated to be minor. The mechanical characteristics of SWCM specimens are much superior to those of control autoclave samples. The investigation of morphology provides a discussion and assumptions regarding the enhancement mechanism. It is considered that the advantage of SWCM specimens is that the particular wrapped edge suppresses the effect of free-edge delamination. This study provides a valuable guideline for designing and fabricating tubular-lug structural components.

Automated summary

This study presents a novel two-step SWCM process for fabricating integral thermosetting CFRP tubular-bar structure elements, which could be further drilled into a tubular-lug structural element. The SWCM technique has minor influence on the curing of the epoxy prepregs, and the mechanical characteristics of SWCM specimens are much superior to those of control autoclave samples. The investigation of morphology provides a discussion and assumptions regarding the enhancement mechanism, and the study provides a valuable guideline for designing and fabricating tubular-lug structural components.