Evaluation of thermal-stress-induced deformations in thin ply composite structures
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea SICOMP AB - SWEREA SICOMP AB, Linköping |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 125 000 |
| Project duration | August 2016 - March 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
Important results from the project
The main purpose of this project was to study the effect of using a thin-layer prepreg on the L-shaped structure after curing. Structures with different thicknesses of the same material were tested and the results evaluated.
Expected long term effects
This study provided an insight to the behaviour of thin ply composites under nominal manufacturing conditions. The results strengthened OXEON´s portfolio and contributed towards a better understanding of the material´s behavior during curing. This is important input when designing new structures. Needless to say that the results of this study set this material as more desirable for direct industrial use.
Approach and implementation
Five different cases were evaluated (one more than originally planned) and all samples were tested with the ATOS system. We discovered that materials with lower areal weights generally lead to lower spring-back effects. This pre-study indicated that thin-ply prepregs have the potential to substitute normal prepreg material and also improve the design, as lower springback effects were observed.