Method and device for continuous formation of braid reinforced thermoplastic structural and flexible members

Apparatus for forming a braid reinforced thermoplastic member, the apparatus comprising:

• a weaving mandrel
• means for supporting the weaving mandrel such that the weaving mandrel is stationary;
• a braiding device for weaving fibers coated with thermoplastic with second fibers onto the weaving mandrel to form a braided preform;
• a heating die for melting the thermoplastic of the coated fibers of the braided preform to form a continuous matrix of thermoplastic between the coated fibers and the second fibers to produce the member;
• and
• a cooling bath for receiving and cooling the member exiting from the heating die;
• wherein the weaving mandrel extends through the heating die and into the cooling bath and includes:
• a center bore of the weaving mandrel formed therein,
• a fluid tube in the bore of the weaving mandrel for conveying a cooling fluid into the mandrel, and
• a plug, sealing the center bore of the weaving mandrel, for restricting circulation of the cooling fluid from a portion of the mandrel within the heating die.