Fiber Placement of Out of Autoclave Composites
Abstract
An alternative to the traditional use of autoclaves in the production of large carbon fiber composites is Out of Autoclave (OOA) processing, which uses far less expensive ovens. Fabrication of large carbon fiber composite parts is limited by the small number of existing large autoclaves that are currently tied up with Boeing 787 and F-35 production. In addition, the high capital cost of buying large autoclaves is prohibitive. The ability to use less expensive ovens, coupled with the use of resins at lower cure temperatures, will allow more suppliers to enter the market and fabricate a greater number of larger carbon fiber composite parts at lower costs. Outcomes: The initial phase of this project focuses on the development of the fiber placement process. The goal is to demonstrate the lay down rates required to meet projected requirements and the fabrication of quality laminates with autoclave-equivalent mechanical performance. Candidate aircraft for this technology are: Air Force/Army Joint Future Theatre Lift (C-130 successor) – 180’ wingspan and 140’ fuselage; National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Ares V - 33’ diameter; Navy P-8 Raked Wing Tip.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 4ff188f8d9f001c65134c6e4950ec391