Analysis on factors influencing process-induced deformation for thermoset composites

By integrated sub-model approach，a three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) model was developed to simulate the cure process and predict the process-induced deformation for thermoset composites. L shape structure cure process was simulated to analyze the effect of these cure process parameters on the process-induced deformation. The simulation results show：The heating-rate and convection coefficient influence the deformation by changing peak temperature；cure pressure affects the deformation by changing resin distribution and fiber volume fraction；the ply direction induced mechanical property difference is the main reason of the spring-in angle diversity；the influence of thickness should consider its effect on peak temperature and structure stiffness；the radius has a little influence on deformation；the mold style changes resin distribution gradient direction and mold force position；selection of mold materials and style has crucial influence on the process-induced deformation control.