Method for constructing an inflatable mandrel

Abstract

A method for constructing an inflatable elastomer mandrel for use in fabricating composite articles is provided. The method comprises the steps of preparing a rigid, water soluble mandrel to the desired size and shape with a shaft extending therethrough; applying a mold releasing ply to the water soluble mandrel; applying a first layer of uncured elastomer to cover the water soluble mandrel; curing the first layer of elastomer to form a base layer for a work piece mandrel wherein the work piece mandrel initially comprises the cured layer of elastomer disposed about the water soluble mandrel; applying a second layer of uncured elastomer to cover the work piece mandrel; winding a fiber onto the work piece mandrel; applying a third layer of uncured elastomer to cover the winding of the fiber of the work piece mandrel; winding a second fiber onto the third layer of elastomer of the work piece mandrel; applying a fourth layer of uncured elastomer to cover the winding of the second fiber of the work piece mandrel; curing the layers of elastomer having been applied to the work piece mandrel; and dissolving the water soluble mandrel and removing the shaft from the work piece mandrel. The work piece mandrel may then be connected to tooling, inflated, and its surface machined to the desired contour and texture. A mandrel having a two-piece mandrel/sleeve configuration may be constructed wherein only the sleeve has hoop windings so that the mandrel is more readily collapsible.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.