Method and tool for forming a scarf joint

Abstract

A method of forming a scarf joint between first and second elongate composite components, each having a complimentary tapered end surface is disclosed. At least one of the components is formed of a stack of fibre layers impregnated in resin, with the tapered end surface being formed by each fibre layer extending longitudinally progressively further than the adjacent layer. The method comprises applying adhesive to at least one of the tapered end surfaces, attaching a moulding tool around the first and second elongate components with their tapered end surfaces being adjacent to one another, applying a positive pressure increase to urge the tapered surfaces towards one another without locally reducing the pressure below the vapour pressure of the resin or adhesive throughout the curing process, and curing the resin and adhesive in the moulding tool with the pressure applied.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.