Complex shaped fiber reinforced plastic structural component manufacture involves creating a partly cured resin impregnated fiber preform and forming into a final shape and continuing the curing stage

摘要

A fiber structure is impregnated with a resin system and the resulting fiber composite is preformed into a semi-finished product. During preforming only partial curing of the resin system occurs so that the semi-finished product remains formable. The semi-finished product is then molded to its final shape and curing recommences so that the product becomes fully hardened. During preforming the fiber composite is cooled below a specific temperature at which curing of the resin system is halted. Final molding occurs above a set temperature at which curing continues. Preforming may be achieved by pultrusion, calendering or pressing. Final molding can be achieved by thermoforming, pressing or use of high internal pressure. Final forming may also include placing two or more semi-finished products in a tool and joining them to form a single component. A joint between the two components may be effected by the curing resin or with an adhesive. Heating for final molding can be by UV (ultra-violet) or microwaves. Resin systems can be hybrid types with two or more different reaction systems. Cross-linking of a resin system during or after preforming of the semi-finished product is stopped after curing of a first reaction system. Conclusion of curing is effected by a second reaction system.