ROLL FORMING OF THERMOPLASTICS

摘要

This invention provides a method of roll forming fibre reinforced thermoplastic (FRTP) materials while reducing the degradation of the physical structure and properties of the material. The thermoplastic material is heated to a temperature above the melting temperature of the thermoplastic and then allowed to cool below the melting temperature but still at a temperature higher than the recrystallisation temperature of the thermoplastic. The material may then be formed as required while in this temperature range. If a series of successive forming steps are required, additional heat may be provided to the material to maintain the temperature higher than the recrystallisation temperature whilst still below the melting temperature of the material.