Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite part molding process involves heating thermoplastic matrix by passing current through the carbon fibers and applying pressure

摘要

An electrical current is applied to the carbon fiber prior to closure of an electrically non-conducting tool. During or after this period pressure is applied to the material by tool closure and the material consolidated. Inert gas may be supplied to the tool depending on the type of thermoplastic matrix material. Decoratively faced composite parts may be produced by combining films, textiles or leather with the composite material. The surfacing material is brought into contact with the composite material after heating the latter and pressure applied by tool closure to consolidate the composite and weld or bond the surface material onto it in a single operation. Similarly other components or inserts may be combined with the composite material by placing onto the latter after it has been heated and then applying pressure by tool closure.