Optimization of the tape placement process parameters for carbon-PPS composites

The interrelation between process parameters, material properties and interlaminar bond strength is investigated for the laser assisted tape placement process. Unidirectionally carbon reinforced poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS) tapes were welded onto carbon woven fabric reinforced PPS laminates. The laminate and tape temperature distribution was measured during the welding process. The mandrel peel test method was applied to quantify the bond strength. The experiments demonstrated that an excellent bond quality can be obtained at high velocities and low input power in case the laser is primarily aimed at the tape. For these settings, the tape temperature exceeds the laminate temperature, while the latter stays well below the melt temperature of the PPS. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.