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Polymers and Polymer Composites

PREFORM TECHNOLOGY: A NECESSARY REQUIREMENT FOR QUALITY CONTROLLED LCM-PROCESSES

August 1, 2003 By: Mitschang P; Ogale A; Schlimbach J; Weyrauch F; Weimer C Research article

Title: PREFORM TECHNOLOGY: A NECESSARY REQUIREMENT FOR QUALITY CONTROLLED LCM-PROCESSES
Page Range: p.605-622
Author(s): Mitschang P; Ogale A; Schlimbach J; Weyrauch F; Weimer C
File size: 749K
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Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Issue Year: ppc
Volume: 11
Issue No: No. 8

Abstract
This article discusses the need to use preform techniques to produce qualified and manageable reinforcements as a requirement for further steps in the development of liquid composite moulding (LCM) processes. The definition and philosophy of the ‘sew ‘n’ cut’ technique based on tailored reinforcements shows an alternative to direct preform technologies. The importance of selecting adequate thread construction and properties, such as elastic behaviour in order to minimise the influence on ellipse generation and the in-plane properties of the reinforcement are examined. Based on such performs, the control of the LCM process is shown to be possible. Different concepts to realise a controlled injection are discussed,and the decision-tree-concept is described in detail and verified by controlling the race-tracking effect. A critical preforming effort is defined whereby a further increase in preforming activities will nullify the expected cost advantages. 59 refs.

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