Method for id sizing of filament reinforced annular objects

Abstract

A method of controlling the internal dimensions of a filament reinforced ring structure is taught. The method involves providing the ring structure with an internal dimension which is slightly smaller than the specification of the final dimension which is sought. The ring structure is mounted over a solid mandrel having a coefficient of thermal expansion which is greater than that of the ring structure. The solid mandrel is mounted within the ring structure and the combination is heated to a temperature at which the outer dimension of the mandrel is greater than that of the internal dimension of the ring structure. The result is to enlarge the internal dimensions of the ring structure to a value conforming very closely to a specification for the ring structure.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.