Process control of matched-die press molding utilizing dielectric sensor for thermoplastic FRP

摘要

Thermoplastic composites have high impact resistance and are good for the jet engine parts that sometimes suffer bird strike damage. However many laborious test moldings are needed to get optimal process parameters for press molding. Process control utilizing in-mold sensor can significantly reduce the number of test moldings. In this study, dielectric properties of the PEEK resin in the press molding process were measured, and correlations between dielectric properties and dynamic melt viscosity or PvT properties were discussed. Process control of matched-die press molding for CF/PEEK was demonstrated. The possibility of process control for thermoplastic composites by utilizing dielectric sensor was confirmed.