Machine and method for fabricating a sheet metal structure having a corrugated core

摘要

Three metal foils are simultaneously fed in opposing relationship through a machine which automatically fabricates a sheet metal sandwich structure therefrom. The foils are first tensioned in aligned opposing relationship. The center sheet is then fed through a pair of free floating gear shaped corrugator tools which form corrugations or undulations therein. Adhesive is then applied to the inner surfaces of the two outer foils and the three foils passed through a pair of drums which press the foils together between opposing metal bands and provide uniform heat thereto through the bands to effect curing of the adhesive. The foils are further pressed together between the bands by means of air diaphragms or bladders which provide hydraulically controlled clamping force thereto. Finally, the sandwich structure thus formed is trimmed and cut to form boards of the desired width and length.