Molding of composite materials

摘要

A method of molding a composite material comprising reinforcing fibres enclosed in a resin matrix. Layers of the resin impregnated fibres are laid-up in a suitably shaped die whereupon the laid-up layers are overlaid by a silicone rubber member which generally corresponds in shape with the die. Hydraulic pressure is exerted upon the silicone rubber member so that it urges the laid-up fibres into the configuration of the die. The whole molding apparatus is placed in an oven and its temperature is raised to that at which consolidation of the laid-up fibres occurs and the resin cures. The exerted hydraulic pressure is progressively reduced during heating as the silicone rubber member thermally expands so as to ensure that the pressure exerted by the silicone rubber member upon the laid-up fibres remains substantially constant.