Heated composite molding tool for manufacture of fiber reinforced components is constructed in fiber reinforced plastic with embedded conductive electrical resistance heating element

摘要

The tool(1) has a fiber composite structure(5) with a plastic matrix(6) in which an electrical resistance heating element (3) is embedded. The plastic matrix(6) penetrates the resistance heating element(3) which is formed of a woven or non-woven fabric and/or a fiber fleece. Connections(2) on the heating element link with an electrical supply while remaining areas are electrically insulated by non-conducting surrounding areas(11) of the fiber composite structure. Several resistance heating elements may be embedded in the plastic matrix and form a meandering row parallel to the tool surface(4). Location of the heating element is between the tool molding surface and thermal insulation at the rear. Thermal insulation comprises a molded rigid foam embedded in the plastic matrix. One or more temperature sensors(7) are embedded in the plastic matrix adjacent to the resistance heating element.