Flange forming device and flange forming method

Abstract

The invention discloses a flange forming device and a flange forming method, and belongs to the technical field of composite material forming. The flange forming device comprises a positioning tool, a positioning cavity is formed in the positioning tool, and the positioning cavity is used for installing flange packing. The flange forming device further comprises a forming core mold, and the forming core mold is used for installing pipeline parts. The positioning tool is configured to be connected with the forming core mold, and by fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity and the forming core mold, the relative position between the flange filler and the pipeline part is fixed when the flange filler is attached to the pipeline part. In this way, the precision of the relative position between the flange filler and the pipeline part can be improved, and the risk that the flange filler deviates is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of composite material molding technology, and in particular to a flange forming device and flange forming method. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of composite material molding, pipe components are often used as connectors, requiring flanges at the pipe ends to facilitate assembly and connection with other parts. For pipe components using composite materials, the molding process for circular flanges typically involves placing flange packing at a predetermined position at the pipe end during the main pipe molding process, followed by covering and securing it with a new layup. Currently, the position of the flange packing is usually determined by projecting the theoretical flange position onto the component surface using a laser projector, with operators manually placing and positioning it according to the projected lines.

[0003] However, manual installation by operators relies heavily on their experience. During installation, the flange packing is prone to displacement, making it difficult to ensure the relative positional accuracy between the flange packing and pipeline components, thus affecting the connection accuracy and reliability when assembling the flange with other parts. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a flange forming apparatus and a flange forming method, which helps to improve the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing and pipeline components and reduce the risk of flange packing displacement.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this application, a flange forming apparatus is provided. The flange forming apparatus includes a positioning fixture with a positioning cavity inside for installing flange packing. The flange forming apparatus also includes a forming mandrel for installing pipeline components. The positioning fixture is configured to connect with the forming mandrel, fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity and the forming mandrel to maintain the relative position between the flange packing and the pipeline component when the flange packing is applied to the pipeline component.

[0006] Optionally, the flange packing includes a first sub-packing and a second sub-packing. The positioning fixture includes: a first positioning member having a first sub-positioning cavity inside for installing the first sub-packing; and a second positioning member having a second sub-positioning cavity inside for installing the second sub-packing. The first positioning member and the second positioning member are configured to be opposite to each other so that the first sub-positioning cavity and the second sub-positioning cavity mate to form a positioning cavity, thereby abutting the first sub-packing and the second sub-packing to form the flange packing.

[0007] Optionally, the positioning fixture includes: a first fastener for connecting the first positioning member and the second positioning member to the forming core mold; and a second fastener for fixing the first positioning member and the second positioning member together, such that the first positioning member presses the first sub-filler against the pipeline component and the second positioning member presses the second sub-filler against the pipeline component.

[0008] Optionally, the flange forming apparatus further includes: a forming fixture having a forming cavity inside, the forming cavity being used to pre-form the flange packing.

[0009] Optionally, the flange packing includes a first sub-packing and a second sub-packing, and the forming tooling includes: a first forming part having a first sub-forming cavity inside, the first sub-forming cavity being used to pre-form the first sub-packing; and a second forming part having a second sub-forming cavity inside, the second sub-forming cavity being used to pre-form the second sub-packing; the first forming part and the second forming part are configured to be arranged opposite each other so that the first sub-forming cavity and the second sub-forming cavity are mated to form a forming cavity.

[0010] Optionally, the molding fixture further includes a positioning component, wherein the first molding part and the second molding part are fixedly connected by the positioning component so that the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity are mated to form a molding cavity.

[0011] Optionally, the molding tooling also includes a pressure plate configured to cooperate with the molding tooling for compacting the prepreg within the molding cavity to form the flange packing.

[0012] According to a second aspect of this application, a flange forming method is provided, which is based on the flange forming apparatus described in the above embodiments. The flange forming method includes: loading flange packing into a positioning cavity inside a positioning fixture of the flange forming apparatus; connecting the positioning fixture to a forming mandrel of the flange forming apparatus; and applying the flange packing to a pipe component mounted on the forming mandrel.

[0013] Optionally, the step of applying flange packing to the pipe fitting mounted on the molding mandrel includes heating the position of the flange packing on the positioning fixture so that the flange packing is applied to the pipe fitting.

[0014] Optionally, the flange forming apparatus further includes a forming fixture having a forming cavity inside; prior to the step of loading the flange packing into the positioning cavity inside the positioning fixture of the flange forming apparatus, the apparatus includes: filling the forming cavity with prepreg; and compacting the prepreg to form the flange packing.

[0015] Optionally, the molding fixture includes a first molding part, a second molding part, and a positioning assembly. The first molding part has a first sub-molding cavity, and the second molding part has a second sub-molding cavity. The step of filling the molding cavities with prepreg includes: filling the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity with prepreg. The step of compacting the prepreg to form the flange packing includes: compacting the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity, so that the first sub-packing is formed in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-packing is formed in the second sub-molding cavity. The first molding part and the second molding part are fixedly connected by the positioning assembly so that the first sub-packing and the second sub-packing are mated to form the flange packing.

[0016] Optionally, after the step of fixing the first molded part and the second molded part together by the positioning component to form the flange packing, the method includes: removing the packing overflow at the joint of the first molded part and the second molded part.

[0017] Optionally, the step of compacting the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity includes: vacuum compacting the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity; and compacting the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity in an autoclave.

[0018] In the flange forming apparatus of this application embodiment, flange packing is installed by setting a positioning fixture with an internal positioning cavity. The positioning fixture is configured to connect with a forming mandrel on which pipe parts are installed. By fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity and the forming mandrel, the relative position between the flange packing and the pipe parts is fixed when the flange packing is applied to the pipe parts. This embodiment of the application fixes the relative position between the flange packing and the pipe parts when the flange packing is applied to the pipe parts, avoiding the flange packing position deviation caused by human factors during manual flange packing, which helps to improve the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing and the pipe parts and reduces the risk of flange packing displacement.

[0019] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the flange forming apparatus of this application; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the flange forming device shown. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of area A of the flange forming device shown; Figure 4 This is an exploded structural diagram of an embodiment of the positioning tooling of this application; Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the first positioning element of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the second positioning element of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the molding tooling of this application; Figure 8 This is an exploded structural diagram of an embodiment of the molding tooling of this application; Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the first molded part of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the second molded part of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the flange forming method of this application.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 10-Positioning fixture; 11-Positioning cavity; 111-First sub-positioning cavity; 112-Second sub-positioning cavity; 12-First positioning component; 13-Second positioning component; 14-First fastener; 15-Second fastener; 20-Molding core; 30-Flange packing; 31-First sub-packing; 32-Second sub-packing; 40-Pipeline parts; 50-Molding fixture; 51-Molding cavity; 511-First sub-molding cavity; 512-Second sub-molding cavity; 52-First molded part; 53-Second molded part; 54-Positioning assembly; 541-Third positioning component; 542-Third fastener; 55-Pressure plate; 551-First pressure plate; 552-Second pressure plate. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0025] Composite materials, due to their suitability for near-net-shape forming technology and their designability, are advantageous for molding monolithic piping with double curvature or irregular cross-sections. Piping components made of composite materials are widely used in the aerospace industry for oil or electrical wiring. These piping components are often used as connectors, meaning they need to be assembled and connected to other parts, typically using flanges. Therefore, the forming profile and positioning accuracy of the flanges are crucial during the molding process.

[0026] In the one-piece molding process of pipe components using composite materials, flange packing needs to be placed at the pipe end. After fixing the flange packing in the predetermined position, it is then covered and secured by laying a new layer. In general operation, the position of the flange packing is usually projected onto the surface of the component using a laser projector, and the field operator lays the flange packing according to the projected lines. However, manual laying by operators cannot guarantee the laying accuracy of the flange packing and the surface accuracy of the flange.

[0027] To address the technical problem of easy positional displacement of flange packing in existing technologies, one embodiment of this application provides a flange forming apparatus. The flange forming apparatus includes a positioning fixture with a positioning cavity for installing flange packing. The apparatus also includes a forming mandrel for installing pipeline components. The positioning fixture is configured to connect with the forming mandrel, fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity and the forming mandrel to maintain the relative position between the flange packing and the pipeline component when the flange packing is applied to the pipeline component. This will be described in detail below.

[0028] Please see Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the flange forming apparatus of this application. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the flange forming device shown. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of area A of the flange forming device.

[0029] In one embodiment, the flange forming apparatus is used to form a flange on a pipe fitting 40. Specifically, the flange forming apparatus includes a positioning fixture 10 and a forming mandrel 20. The positioning fixture 10 has a positioning cavity 11 for mounting flange packing 30. The forming mandrel 20 is used for mounting the pipe fitting 40. The positioning fixture 10 is configured to connect with the forming mandrel 20, fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity 11 and the forming mandrel 20 to fix the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40 when the flange packing 30 is applied to the pipe fitting 40.

[0030] In this embodiment, by installing the flange packing 30 in the positioning cavity 11 of the positioning fixture 10 and connecting the positioning fixture 10 to the forming core mold 20, the relative position between the positioning cavity 11 and the forming core mold 20 is fixed. This fixes the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40 when the flange packing 30 is applied to the pipe fitting 40. This embodiment fixes the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40 when the flange packing 30 is applied to the pipe fitting 40, avoiding positional deviations of the flange packing 30 caused by human factors during manual placement. This improves the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40 and reduces the risk of flange packing 30 shifting.

[0031] It should be noted that the molding mandrel 20 is matched with the pipe fitting 40. When the type and model of the pipe fitting 40 change, a matching molding mandrel 20 needs to be prepared for application of the flange packing 30 on the pipe fitting 40.

[0032] In one embodiment, the flange packing 30 includes a first sub-packing 31 and a second sub-packing 32. Both the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 can be semi-circular annular structures, and the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 can be joined together to form a complete circular flange packing 30.

[0033] Correspondingly, please refer to the following as well. Figures 4 to 6 The positioning fixture 10 includes a first positioning element 12 and a second positioning element 13. The first positioning element 12 has a first sub-positioning cavity 111 inside. The shape of the first sub-positioning cavity 111 matches the shape of the first sub-filler 31 and is used to install the first sub-filler 31. The second positioning element 13 has a second sub-positioning cavity 112 inside. The shape of the second sub-positioning cavity 112 matches the shape of the second sub-filler 32 and is used to install the second sub-filler 32.

[0034] When the first positioning member 12 mates with the second positioning member 13, the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are positioned opposite each other, and the first sub-positioning cavity 111 and the second sub-positioning cavity 112 mate to form a complete positioning cavity 11. The shape of the positioning cavity 11 matches the complete flange packing 30. At this time, the first sub-packing 31 in the first sub-positioning cavity 111 and the second sub-packing 32 in the second sub-positioning cavity 112 mate to form a complete flange packing 30. The first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 can be pre-prepared and molded, and respectively installed into the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13. After the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are mated and fixed, the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 mate within the positioning cavity 11 to form a complete flange packing 30.

[0035] In this embodiment, by setting the positioning fixture 10 as a split structure, the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are respectively used to install the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32. After the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are connected, the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 can form a complete flange packing 30. This facilitates the transfer of the flange packing 30 from the forming fixture 50 (described in detail below) to the positioning fixture 10. Furthermore, the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are adapted to the split design of the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32. In the case where the flange packing 30 is installed integrally on the pipeline component 40, interference between the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40 may occur. This embodiment allows the operator to install the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 from both sides of the pipeline component 40, reducing the difficulty of installing the flange packing 30 to the pipeline component 40 and improving operational convenience.

[0036] In one embodiment, the positioning fixture 10 further includes a first fastener 14, which is used to connect the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 to the forming core mold 20. This embodiment achieves precise positioning between the positioning fixture 10 and the forming core mold 20 through the first fastener 14, thereby fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity 11 and the forming core mold 20, and thus improving the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe component 40 when the flange packing 30 is applied to the pipe component 40.

[0037] For example, the first fastener 14 may be in the form of a positioning pin, and the first positioning member 12, the second positioning member 13 and the forming core mold 20 are respectively provided with pin holes. The positioning connection between the first positioning member 12, the second positioning member 13 and the forming core mold 20 is achieved by the first fastener 14 passing through the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 and then inserting into the pin hole of the forming core mold 20.

[0038] In one embodiment, the positioning fixture 10 further includes a second fastener 15. The second fastener 15 is used to fix the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 together, such that the first positioning member 12 presses the first sub-filler 31 against the pipeline component 40 and the second positioning member 13 presses the second sub-filler 32 against the pipeline component 40. In this embodiment, the second fastener 15 locks the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 together and applies a clamping force to the flange filler 30, so that the flange filler 30 fits tightly against the pipeline component 40, thereby improving the forming quality of the flange.

[0039] For example, the second fastener 15 can be in the form of a locking bolt or the like. After the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are mated, the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are locked and fixed by the second fastener 15. During this process, the first positioning member 12 presses the first sub-filler 31 onto the pipeline component 40, and the second positioning member 13 presses the second sub-filler 32 onto the pipeline component 40, so that the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40 are tightly fitted together.

[0040] It should be noted that, firstly, the first positioning element 12 and the second positioning element 13 are positioned and connected to the forming core mold 20 by the first fastener 14, improving the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40. Then, the first positioning element 12 and the second positioning element 13 are locked by the second fastener 15, so that the first positioning element 12 applies a clamping force to the first sub-packing 31 and the second positioning element 13 applies a clamping force to the second sub-packing 32, pressing the first sub-packing 31 and the second sub-packing 32 tightly against the surface of the pipeline component 40. The first fastener 14 and the second fastener 15 have a clear division of labor, respectively realizing the functions of positioning and clamping, which not only improves the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40, but also improves the forming quality of the flange.

[0041] Please refer to the following: Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the molding tooling of this application.

[0042] In one embodiment, the flange forming apparatus further includes a forming fixture 50. The forming fixture 50 has a forming cavity 51 inside, the shape of which matches the shape of the flange packing 30. The forming cavity 51 is used for pre-forming the flange packing 30. The forming fixture 50 is set independently of the positioning fixture 10. The forming fixture 50 and the positioning fixture 10 are used for the forming process and positioning process of the flange packing 30, respectively. This improves the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40, reduces the risk of displacement of the flange packing 30, and improves the forming quality of the flange.

[0043] Furthermore, please refer to the following: Figures 8 to 10The molding fixture 50 can adopt a split structure. Specifically, the molding fixture 50 includes a first molding component 52 and a second molding component 53. The first molding component 52 has a first sub-molding cavity 511 inside for pre-molding the first sub-filler 31, and the second molding component 53 has a second sub-molding cavity 512 inside for pre-molding the second sub-filler 32. After the first molding component 52 and the second molding component 53 are connected, the first molding component 52 and the second molding component 53 are positioned opposite each other, and the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second molding cavity 512 together enclose and form a complete molding cavity 51.

[0044] Through the above-described method, the molding fixture 50 in this embodiment includes a first molding component 52 and a second molding component 53, i.e., the molding fixture 50 adopts a split structure. The molding fixture 50 matches the split design of the positioning fixture 10 (i.e., the positioning fixture 10 includes a first positioning component 12 and a second positioning component 13), allowing the pre-formed first sub-filler 31 and second sub-filler 32 to be respectively installed into the corresponding first positioning component 12 and second positioning component 13, simplifying the transfer operation of the first sub-filler 31 and second sub-filler 32. This embodiment allows operators to install the first sub-filler 31 and second sub-filler 32 onto the pipe component 40 from both sides, avoiding interference problems that may occur when the flange packing 30 is installed integrally onto the pipe component 40, reducing the difficulty of installing the flange packing 30 onto the pipe component 40, and improving operational convenience.

[0045] In one embodiment, the molding fixture 50 further includes a pressure plate 55. The pressure plate 55 is configured to cooperate with the molding fixture 50 for compacting the prepreg within the molding cavity 51 to form the flange packing 30. The shape of the pressure plate 55 matches the opening shape of the molding cavity 51, and one surface of the pressure plate 55 is a flat pressing surface for direct contact with the prepreg.

[0046] Specifically, for the design of the molding tooling 50, which includes a first molding component 52 and a second molding component 53, the pressing sheet 55 in this embodiment includes a first pressing sheet 551 and a second pressing sheet 552. The first pressing sheet 551 is configured to cooperate with the first molding component 52 to compact the prepreg filling the first sub-molding cavity 511. The shape of the first pressing sheet 551 matches the opening shape of the first sub-molding cavity 511, and one surface of the first pressing sheet 551 is a flat pressing surface for direct contact with the prepreg filling the first sub-molding cavity 511. The second pressing sheet 552 is configured to cooperate with the second molding component 53 to compact the prepreg filling the second sub-molding cavity 512. The shape of the second pressing sheet 552 matches the opening shape of the second sub-molding cavity 512, and one surface of the second pressing sheet 552 is a flat pressing surface for direct contact with the prepreg filling the second sub-molding cavity 512.

[0047] For example, the operator fills the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 with prepreg; places the first pressing sheet 551 flat on top of the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity 511, ensuring that the pressing surface of the first pressing sheet 551 is in full contact with the surface of the prepreg; places the second pressing sheet 552 flat on top of the prepreg in the second sub-molding cavity 512, ensuring that the pressing surface of the second pressing sheet 552 is in full contact with the surface of the prepreg. Pressure-sensitive adhesive tape is used to fix the first pressing sheet 551 to the first molded part 52 and the second pressing sheet 552 to the second molded part 53, respectively, to prevent the first pressing sheet 551 and the second pressing sheet 552 from shifting in subsequent processes.

[0048] The prepreg-filled and fixed pressure plate 55 and molding fixture 50 are encapsulated using a vacuum bag, and then vacuum compaction is performed. During vacuum compaction, pressure is applied to the surfaces of the first pressure plate 551 and the second pressure plate 552, which transmit the pressure to the prepreg, compacting it. The presence of the first pressure plate 551 and the second pressure plate 552 ensures that the pressure is evenly distributed across the entire surface of the prepreg, avoiding the problem of uneven local pressure that may occur when the vacuum bag is in direct contact with the prepreg. The vacuum compaction process takes no less than 15 minutes.

[0049] After vacuum compaction, remove the vacuum bag and check the compaction of the prepreg. If insufficient material or loose filler is found, add material, reposition the pressing plate 55, and perform vacuum compaction again. If the compaction effect is good, continue with the subsequent autoclave compaction process. After the autoclave compaction process is completed, remove the first pressing plate 551 from the first molding part 52 and the second pressing plate 552 from the second molding part 53. The first molding part 52 and the second molding part 53 with filler can be processed separately. The first pressing plate 551 and the first molding part 52, as well as the second pressing plate 552 and the second molding part 53, are detachably connected, allowing the first pressing plate 551 and the second pressing plate 552 to be easily removed after the compaction process, facilitating the operator's observation and subsequent processing of the filler.

[0050] In one embodiment, the molding fixture 50 further includes a positioning component 54. The first molding part 52 and the second molding part 53 are fixedly connected by the positioning component 54, so that the first molding part 52 and the second molding part 53 maintain a fixed relative position in the docking state, thereby allowing the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 to dock and form a complete molding cavity 51.

[0051] Specifically, the positioning component 54 includes a third positioning element 541 and a third fastener 542. The first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 are connected and positioned by the third positioning element 541, and the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 are respectively fixedly connected to the third positioning element 541 by the third fastener 542, thereby fixing the relative position between the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53. The shape of the third positioning element 541 can match the shape of the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 in the mating state. The third fastener 542 can be a pin, bolt, or other fastener, and is not limited here.

[0052] In this embodiment, after the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 are connected and positioned by the positioning component 54, the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 can maintain a good match at the joint. The operator can use tools such as a utility knife to cut at the joint of the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 to remove the excess filler, i.e., to perform edge trimming, which helps to improve the connection quality of the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 at the joint. After completing the edge trimming, the third fastener 542 is removed, the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 are separated from the third positioning component 541, the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 are taken out respectively, and the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 are installed into the first positioning component 12 and the second positioning component 13 of the positioning fixture 10.

[0053] The flange forming method according to embodiments of this application is described below. It should be noted that the flange forming method according to embodiments of this application is based on the flange forming apparatus described in the above embodiments.

[0054] Please refer to the following: Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the flange forming method of this application.

[0055] S101: Fill the molding cavity of the molding tool with prepreg.

[0056] In this embodiment, before filling the prepreg into the molding cavity 51 of the molding fixture 50, the surfaces of the molding fixture 50, the positioning fixture 10, and the pressing sheet 55 are cleaned to ensure that there are no foreign objects remaining on the surfaces of each component. The first molded part 52 has a first sub-molding cavity 511 inside, and the second molded part 53 has a second sub-molding cavity 512 inside. The shapes of the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 are respectively matched with the outer shapes of the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32.

[0057] Prepreg is filled into the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512. During filling, multiple checks are performed to ensure that the prepreg is fully filled, completely filling both the first and second sub-molding cavities 511 and 512. After filling, any excess prepreg needs to be removed, ensuring that the edge of the first molded part 52 is substantially flush with the edge of the prepreg on it, and that the edge of the second molded part 53 is substantially flush with the edge of the prepreg on it.

[0058] Optionally, the prepreg can be T800 grade carbon fiber prepreg, etc., and there is no limitation here.

[0059] S102: Compact the prepreg to form flange packing.

[0060] In this embodiment, the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 is compacted, so that the first sub-filler 31 is formed in the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-filler 32 is formed in the second sub-molding cavity 512.

[0061] Specifically, the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 are vacuum compacted. The first pressing sheet 551 is placed flat on top of the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity 511, ensuring full contact between the pressing surface of the first pressing sheet 551 and the surface of the prepreg; the second pressing sheet 552 is placed flat on top of the prepreg in the second sub-molding cavity 512, ensuring full contact between the pressing surface of the second pressing sheet 552 and the surface of the prepreg. The first pressing sheet 551 and the second pressing sheet 552 effectively compact the prepreg. Thus, during the pre-forming process of the flange packing 30, the internal density of the flange packing 30 is improved, while ensuring that the bonding surface between the flange packing 30 and the pipe component 40 is flat and conforms to the shape. Pressure-sensitive adhesive tape is used to fix the first pressing sheet 551 to the first molded part 52 and the second pressing sheet 552 to the second molded part 53, respectively. The prepreg-filled and fixed pressure plate 55 and molding fixture 50 are completely sealed using a vacuum bag, and then vacuum compaction is performed. The vacuum compaction time is no less than 15 minutes. After vacuum compaction is completed, the vacuum bag is removed, and the prepreg compaction is checked multiple times. If material shortage or loose filler is found, material is added, the pressure plate 55 is repositioned, and vacuum compaction is performed again to improve the internal quality of the flange packing 30 after compaction.

[0062] After vacuum compaction, the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 is compacted in an autoclave. The first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 with filler are vacuum-sealed, and the filler compaction process is completed in the autoclave according to the prepreg compaction process. For the compaction process in the autoclave, the process temperature is controlled between 50°C and 70°C, and the process time is controlled between 10 and 30 minutes. This embodiment, by reasonably controlling the process temperature, can promote the appropriate softening of the prepreg, improve the internal density of the molded flange filler 30, and ensure that the flange filler 30 retains the necessary plasticity and adhesion in subsequent processes. Furthermore, by reasonably controlling the process time, heat can fully penetrate into the interior of the flange filler 30, resulting in uniform and consistent compaction at different locations of the flange filler 30, reducing the risk of energy waste or over-curing of the filler due to excessive heat preservation time. By properly controlling the above parameters (process temperature and process duration), the stability and operability of the flange forming process can be improved while enhancing the compaction quality of the flange packing 30. After the compaction process is completed, the sealing material is removed sequentially according to the sealing order, and the first forming part 52 and the second forming part 53 with the packing are taken out.

[0063] S103: The first molded part and the second molded part are fixedly connected by the positioning component so that the first sub-filler and the second sub-filler are mated to form a flange filler.

[0064] In this embodiment, the positioning component 54 includes a third positioning element 541 and a third fastener 542. The first molding element 52 and the second molding element 53 are placed opposite each other, so that their mating surfaces are in contact. The first molding element 52 and the second molding element 53 are connected to the third positioning element 541 respectively via the third fastener 542, so that the first sub-molding cavity 511 and the second sub-molding cavity 512 are mated, and a stable mating state is maintained in subsequent operations. With the positioning component 54 fixing the first molding element 52 and the second molding element 53 connected, the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 naturally mate within the complete molding cavity 51, together forming a complete flange filler 30.

[0065] S104: Removes excess filler from the seam between the first and second molded parts.

[0066] In this embodiment, since excess material may exist at both ends of the first molded part 52 and / or the second molded part 53 during the filling process, after the positioning component 54 fixes the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 together, excess filler may overflow at the joint between the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53. Operators can use tools such as a utility knife to cut at the joint between the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 to remove the overflowing filler, i.e., to perform trimming, which helps improve the connection quality of the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 at the joint.

[0067] S105: Insert the flange packing into the positioning cavity inside the positioning fixture.

[0068] In this embodiment, after the trimming process is completed, the third fastener 542 is removed, and the first molded part 52 and the second molded part 53 are separated from the third positioning part 541. The first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 are then removed. The positioning fixture 10 includes a first positioning part 12 and a second positioning part 13. The first positioning part 12 has a first sub-positioning cavity 111 inside, and the second positioning part 13 has a second sub-positioning cavity 112 inside. The first sub-filler 31 is inserted into the first sub-positioning cavity 111, and the second sub-filler 32 is inserted into the second sub-positioning cavity 112.

[0069] S106: Connect the positioning fixture to the forming core mold.

[0070] In this embodiment, the molding core 20 is used to install the piping component 40. The piping component 40 can be sleeved on the outside of the molding core 20 during the molding process. The first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are connected to the molding core 20, and the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are respectively located on both sides of the piping component 40, so that the first sub-filler 31 and the second sub-filler 32 are respectively located on both sides of the piping component 40.

[0071] The first positioning element 12 and the second positioning element 13 are connected to the forming core mold 20 by the first fastener 14. The first fastener 14 can be in the form of a positioning pin, etc. The forming core mold 20 has a corresponding pin hole. After the first fastener 14 passes through the first positioning element 12 and the second positioning element 13, it is inserted into the pin hole of the forming core mold 20 to realize the positioning connection between the first positioning element 12 and the second positioning element 13 and the forming core mold 20, thereby fixing the relative position between the positioning cavity 11 and the forming core mold 20. Since the flange packing 30 is fixed in the positioning cavity 11 of the positioning fixture 10 and the pipe part 40 is fixed in the forming core mold 20, the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe part 40 is fixed after the positioning fixture 10 is connected to the forming core mold 20. This improves the accuracy of the relative position between the flange packing 30 and the pipe part 40 when the flange packing 30 is applied to the pipe part 40.

[0072] After the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are aligned, the first positioning member 12 and the second positioning member 13 are locked and fixed by the second fastener 15. During this process, the first positioning member 12 presses the first sub-filler 31 onto the pipeline component 40, and the second positioning member 13 presses the second sub-filler 32 onto the pipeline component 40, so that the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40 are tightly fitted together.

[0073] S107: Pipeline fittings installed by applying flange packing to a molded core.

[0074] In this embodiment, the position corresponding to the flange packing 30 on the positioning fixture 10 is heated, causing the flange packing 30 to adhere to the pipe fitting 40. A hot air gun can be used to heat the position corresponding to the flange packing 30 on the positioning fixture 10, promoting adhesion between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40. After complete heating, the flange packing 30 smoothly detaches from the positioning fixture 10. The first fastener 14 and the second fastener 15 are removed, and the first positioning element 12 and the second positioning element 13 are detached from the forming mandrel 20, completing the application of the flange packing 30 to the pipe fitting 40. The flange packing 30 can be applied to the side branch pipe opening of the pipe fitting 40.

[0075] Specifically, during the heating process of the corresponding flange packing 30 position on the positioning fixture 10 using a hot air gun, the heating temperature is controlled between 80 and 110 degrees Celsius, the heating time is controlled between 10 and 30 minutes, and the distance between the hot air gun and the positioning fixture 10 is controlled between 50 mm and 150 mm. This embodiment, by reasonably controlling the temperature, can improve the adhesion between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40, and improve the plasticity of the flange packing 30 during the application process and its mechanical properties after final curing. Furthermore, by reasonably controlling the heating time, heat can be fully transferred to the contact surface between the flange packing 30 and the pipe fitting 40, improving the application effect of the flange packing 30 at various positions and reducing the risk of energy waste due to excessive heating time. In addition, by reasonably controlling the distance between the hot air gun and the positioning fixture 10, hot air can evenly cover the area of ​​the flange packing 30, reducing the risk of premature curing due to localized overheating caused by excessively close proximity, and also reducing the risk of excessive heat loss and reduced heating efficiency due to excessively large distances. By comprehensively controlling the above parameters (heating temperature, heating time, and distance), the bonding quality between the flange packing 30 and the pipeline component 40 can be improved, while also enhancing the stability and repeatability of the process.

[0076] After the flange packing 30 is applied to the pipe fitting 40, repeatedly checking the position and appearance quality of the flange packing 30 helps improve the internal forming quality and surface quality of the flange packing 30 on the pipe fitting 40. If the flange packing 30 is misaligned or bent, it needs to be removed, reinstalled in the positioning fixture 10, and the flange packing 30 application process repeated until the flange packing 30 is accurately positioned, thus completing the flange forming and positioning.

[0077] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0078] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0079] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0080] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the scope of the technical solution of this application shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this application.

Claims

1. A flange forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: A positioning fixture, wherein the positioning fixture has a positioning cavity inside, the positioning cavity being used for installing flange packing; as well as A molding core mold is used to install pipeline components; wherein, the positioning fixture is configured to connect with the molding core mold and fix the relative position between the positioning cavity and the molding core mold to fix the relative position between the flange packing and the pipeline component when the flange packing is applied to the pipeline component.

2. The flange forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flange packing includes a first sub-packing and a second sub-packing, and the positioning fixture includes: A first positioning member, the first positioning member having a first sub-positioning cavity inside, the first sub-positioning cavity being used to install the first sub-filler; and The second positioning member has a second sub-positioning cavity inside, which is used to install the second sub-packing; the first positioning member and the second positioning member are configured to be arranged opposite each other so that the first sub-positioning cavity and the second sub-positioning cavity are connected to form the positioning cavity, and the first sub-packing and the second sub-packing are connected to form the flange packing.

3. The flange forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The positioning fixture includes: A first fastener, used to connect the first positioning member and the second positioning member to the molding core mold; and A second fastener is used to fix the first positioning member and the second positioning member together, such that the first positioning member presses the first sub-filler against the pipeline component and the second positioning member presses the second sub-filler against the pipeline component.

4. The flange forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flange forming apparatus further includes: A forming fixture, the forming fixture having a forming cavity inside, the forming cavity being used to pre-form the flange packing.

5. The flange forming apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flange packing includes a first sub-packing and a second sub-packing, and the forming tooling includes: A first molded part, the first molded part having a first sub-molding cavity inside, the first sub-molding cavity being used to pre-form the first sub-filler; and The second molding component has a second sub-molding cavity inside, the second sub-molding cavity being used to pre-mold the second sub-filler; the first molding component and the second molding component are configured to be arranged opposite each other so that the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity are mated to form the molding cavity.

6. The flange forming apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The molding fixture also includes: The positioning component is used to fix the first molded part and the second molded part together so that the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity are connected to form the molding cavity.

7. The flange forming apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The molding fixture also includes: A pressing plate, configured to cooperate with the molding tooling, is used to compact the prepreg in the molding cavity to form the flange packing.

8. A flange forming method, characterized in that, The flange forming method is based on the flange forming apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, and the flange forming method includes: The flange packing is inserted into the positioning cavity inside the positioning fixture of the flange forming device; Connect the positioning fixture to the forming core mold of the flange forming device; The flange packing is applied to the pipe fittings installed on the molding mandrel.

9. The flange forming method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of applying the flange packing to the molding mandrel for mounting the pipe fitting includes: The positioning fixture is heated at the position corresponding to the flange packing, so that the flange packing is applied to the pipeline component.

10. The flange forming method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The flange forming device also includes a forming fixture, the forming fixture having a forming cavity inside; Prior to the step of inserting the flange packing into the positioning cavity inside the positioning fixture of the flange forming device, the following steps are included: Prepreg is filled into the molding cavity; The prepreg is compacted to form the flange packing.

11. The flange forming method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The molding tooling includes a first molding part, a second molding part, and a positioning component. The first molding part has a first sub-molding cavity inside, and the second molding part has a second sub-molding cavity inside. The step of filling the molding cavity with prepreg includes: The prepreg is filled into the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity; The step of compacting the prepreg to form the flange packing includes: The prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity is compacted, so that the first sub-filler is formed in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-filler is formed in the second sub-molding cavity; The first molded part and the second molded part are fixedly connected by the positioning component so that the first sub-filler and the second sub-filler are mated to form the flange filler.

12. The flange forming method according to claim 11, characterized in that, After the step of fixing the first molded part and the second molded part together by the positioning component to form the flange packing by mating the first sub-packing and the second sub-packing, the following is included: Remove the filler that overflows from the seam between the first molded part and the second molded part.

13. The flange forming method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The step of compacting the prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity includes: The prepreg in the first sub-molding cavity and the second sub-molding cavity is subjected to vacuum compaction. The prepreg in the first and second sub-molding cavities is compacted in an autoclave.

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