Method for manufacturing a fibre-reinforced structure, mandrel, molding system and fibre-reinforced structure

摘要

A method for manufacturing a fiber reinforced structure is disclosed. First, a mandrel (10) of a first material is provided, wherein the mandrel (10) comprises a hollow interior (14) and an aperture (16) for allowing a fluid to enter the interior. A layer (18) of a second material is provided on the mandrel (10). The second material comprises an uncured resin and fibers. The mandrel (10) and the layer (18) are placed in a mold cavity (22) formed by a mold (20). A pressurized fluid is introduced into the interior of the mandrel (10) via the aperture (16) for generating a force acting to expand the mandrel (10) outward. The mandrel (10) is heated so that it becomes deformable and expand outward to press the layer (18) against the mold (20). The layer (18) is heated so that it cures. The mandrel (10) is then heated to a temperature above its melting point of the first material so that it melts, after which it is removed.