Process Simulation of Fiber Reinforced Plastics

Part I Formulation of Process Simulation

Abstract

Mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy of FRP parts depend on molding process. The authors have been developing a new simulation method to predict them by considering molding process. This paper describes an overview of the process simulation. Some new characteristics were proposed to analyze curing process of the matrix resin and its residual stress because the temperature gradient of the mold during the curing process would affect the thermal deformation and residual thermal stress in the FRP parts. Not only the finite element model of the FRP parts but also that of the mold were prepared. The characteristics data to predict the cure temperature were acquired first by evaluating quantity of heat required to complete the cure reaction, experimentally. The relation between the heating up ratio and the deformation of FRP parts was evaluated both analytically and experimentally, by changing the curing profile systematically. The amount of the deformation of the FRP parts agreed well with the prediction by the simulation.