Transverse Compaction Analysis of 2.5D Preform Composite

Abstract

Transverse compaction is an important pattern of deformation during the composite resin transfer molding (RTM) process. Reasonable compaction rate is related to both the composite mould design and the fiber volume fraction of the final composite. In this paper, a mesoscopic geometry model based on CT scanning of 2.5D preform reinforcements is presented. Applying this model to the FEM simulation of transverse compaction, we prove the validation on simulating transverse compaction property of 2.5D preform by comparing to results of compaction test. Orientation angle during the progressive compaction is studied. Using this geometry structure, we build internal and surface RUC respectively then combining together to predict the in-plane mechanical property of 2.5D preform composite. Prediction result is acceptable corresponding to the mechanical properties calculated by homogenized method and compressive stiffness tested by combined loading compression (CLC) experiment.