Induction technique in manufacturing preforms

• Published in: Mechanics of composite materials 2008-09, Vol.44 (5), p.523-530
• Main Authors: Frauenhofer, M., Ströhlein, T., Fabig, S., Böhm, S., Herbeck, L., Dilger, K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ceramics; Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemistry and Materials Science; Classical Mechanics; Composites; Glass; Materials Science; Natural Materials; Solid Mechanics
• ISSN: 0191-5665; 1573-8922
• DOI: 10.1007/s11029-008-9040-y

The prepreg technology is a state-of-the-art method to produce high-performance CFRP parts. Due to the high material prices, the restricted process rate, and limitations to the component complexity, in future, more and more parts will be assembled by using liquid composite moulding. Especially in the case of series larger than 100 parts per year, the LCM technology offers the best cost-effectiveness. This technology is based on resin injection into dry multilayer fibre textiles (preforms). The Institute of Joining and Welding (TU, Braunschweig), together with the Institute of Composite Structures and Adaptive Systems (DLR), has elaborated a new technology to speed up the preform process, which is the most labour-intensive step within the LCM process chain. A novel concept to consolidate binder-coated fabrics is under development. By applying the high energy transfer rate of induction technology, it is possible to heat up a preform with rates up to 50 K/s to melt the binder and consolidate the preform.