Two phase continuum modelling of composites consolidation

Journal article, 2009

In this paper, a finite element (FE) code for modelling of pressure driven axisymmetric consolidation of composite material from commingled yarns is presented. The proposed model is developed on the basis of a two phase continuum model incorporated in an FE framework. The applicability of the code to axisymmetric geometries is demonstrated by analysis of the consolidation, i.e. resin infiltration and fibre bundle network deformation, of a GF/PP pressure vessel. In this numerical example, two different sets of processing conditions are presented. Based on these analysis results conclusions on the process ability of the investigated vessel configuration and manufacturing scheme are drawn and processing recommendations are given.