Method for making large composite structures without use of an autoclave

Abstract

A method for fabrication or production of composite structures, which has particular advantages when fabricating large structures, includes the steps of procuring a composite panel, such as carbon-fiber-reinforced resin. The edge of the composite panel its adhesively fixed in the slot of a bifurcated metallic piece. After the composite panel is adhesively fixed to the metallic piece, the metallic piece is stir-friction welded to another metal piece. The stir-friction welding occurs at a lower temperature than fusion welding, and so the adhesive bond between the metallic element and the composite panel is less affected. When two composite panels are each adhesively fastened to a metallic element, the two metallic elements can, in turn, be stir-friction welded. Thus, large panels can be fabricated.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.