Predictions of the temperature profile within composite sheets during pre-heating

This paper deals with a mathematical model to simulate the pre-heating of continuous UD carbon fiber, glass fabric and carbon fabric reinforced thermoplastic composite laminates prior to press forming. The model developed predicts the transient temperature distribution within the laminates throughout the pre-heating process for various heating techniques. In this paper, attention is focused on two particular aspects of the model. The modelling technique used to model the heaters in infra-red heating is described and the procedure for modelling the transfer process from the heating rig to the press for forming is also dealt with. Software predictions are compared with experimental data to verify the model accuracy. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Limited.