Multi-sectional composite tooling

Abstract

A multi-sectional composite tooling for use in molding large composite structures. The tooling includes at least two tooling sections that are made from quasi-isotropic sheet molding compound. The two tooling sections are seamed together with a scarf plug at the tooling surface. The scarf plug is composed of specially oriented layers of consolidated quasi-isotropic sheet molding compound. The scarf plug is made from the same type of quasi-isotropic sheet molding compound that is used to make the tooling sections.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates generally to apparatus and methods used to mold composite materials into large composite structures. More particularly, the present invention is directed to the multi-sectional tools that are used to form such large composite structures and the ways in which the sections of such tools are joined together.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]Many processes for making composite structures utilize a mold to provide desired surface contours and shapes. The mold is particularly important in autoclave processes where the uncured resin / fiber material is heated in the mold, under vacuum, to relatively high cure temperatures (175° C. and above) to form the final composite part or structure.[0005]Molds made from steel alloys, such as INVAR36, are commonly used because they are extremely strong and can easily withstand the elevated cure temperatures used in autoclaves for composite material curing...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a multi-sectional tooling system that uses scarf plugs to fill the gaps between the tooling sections. These scarf plugs are made from the same material used to make the tooling sections, making them durable and able to withstand numerous molding cycles. The scarf plugs have physical properties that match those of the tooling sections to prevent separation at the bond lines. Additionally, the scarf plugs can be machined and polished in the same manner as the tooling sections to provide a seamless surface. Overall, this technique results in a more precise and high-quality tooling surface.

Problems solved by technology

Although steel alloys are well suited for making multi-sectional large tooling, there are a number of drawbacks.

For example, steel alloy tooling tends to be heavy and expensive.

In addition, the time required to heat and then cool a massive multi-sectional steel alloy tooling increases the cycle time during molding of composite structures.

Unidirectional tape is not well-suited for use in making composite tooling.

In addition, composite tooling made from UD tape cannot be machined to obtain the tight surface profile tolerances that are required for composite tooling without significant tool movement.

It is not practical to make a single large composite tooling at one location and then transport it to another location for use in molding large composite structures.

In addition, the seam filling cannot be porous or have other imperfections which would be exposed during initial or subsequent machining and / or polishing of the tooling surface.

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