Processing, thermosets filament winding

For thermosets, the hollow part processes are filament winding and pultrusion. These processes are limited in shape and structure. There are three hollow part processes for thermoplastics (1) rotational molding, (2) twin sheet thermoforming, and (3) blow molding. 

Chapter 7 focuses on the thermoplastic filament winding process for continuous fiber reinforced composites. Thermoset filament winding has been around for over four decades and is routinely used to make axisymmetric structures. In the last couple of decades, researchers have tried to translate... 

Process models allow composite case manufacturers to determine the affects of process variable settings on final cylinder quality. Because the cost of a composite cylinder can be as great as 500,000, the ability to simulate filament winding can significantly reduce cost and improve quality. Several computer models of the filament-winding process for both thermoset and thermoplastic matrix materials have been developed. These models are based on engineering principles such as conservation of mass and energy. As such, numerous resin systems and fiber materials can be modeled. 

Derakane . [Dow] Vinyl ester resin thermoset used in chem. processing industry, pulp and paper mills, pipe, filament winding. 

Two processes for the forming of reinforced thermosets (a) pultrusion and (b) filament winding. 

Fiber placement is basically a hybrid of filament winding and tape laying and is a continuous process for fabricating composite shapes, by laying thermoset or thermoplastic preimpregnated tows (in tow or slit tape form) onto a mandrel or tool having concave or convex surfaces. There is no limit to the fiber angle and tows can be added or removed as and when necessary. 

Figure 6.23 Filament winding process using Uqmd thermosetting resin systems.

For thermosets, there really is only one hollow part process—filament winding. That process is very limited in shape and structure such that, except for pressure applications, most thermoset hollow products are assembled. 

Figure F.2 Filament winding process using a liquid thermosetting resin system. (Ref HuU, J.L., Processing of Thermosets , Modern Plastics Handbook, McGraw-HiU, New York, 2000)...

The surface treatment chemistry of glass fiber is normally tailored to match the product function. Reinforcement size chemistries must be compatible with a multitude of processes and with the composite material end-use performance criteria. Processes such as injection molding require chopped fibers with compatibility for thermoplastic compounds. Filament winding and pultrusion require continuous fibers with utihty in thermoset and thermoplastic compovmds. Typically three basic components cue used with glass size chemistries a film former, lubricant, and coupling agent. Readers are directed to the patent literature or [1] and [2] for more specific details. 

---