Helical tooling for consolidation of thermoplastic composite tubes
AssigneeMassachusetts Institute of Technology
InventorsTimothy M. Berg, Timothy G. Gutowski
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Abstract
A helical tooling process for economical production of high quality, high temperature thermoplastic composite tubes uses a mandrel or external cylinder to resist a force applied from a helical member for consolidation pressure, compaction, and part removal. The helical too long process facilitates the prescription of a desired consolidation pressure and diameter, independent of temperature. The advantages of the disclosed process include improved produced part quality, increased process flexibility, and enhanced economic efficiency. These advantages stem from the device being easily controlled and fabricated and having a low thermal mass.
Claims8
An apparatus for applying pressure to form a tube shaped part, the apparatus comprising:
- a helically shaped member defining at least one substantially smooth cylindrical surface about a longitudinal axis,
- means, coupled to the helically shaped member, for applying a force to said helically shaped member to cause the diameter of said at least one cylindrical surface to change, and
- means, opposite said cylindrical surface, for resisting the change in diameter of said cylindrical surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.