thermoforming process
Composite parts can be formed in a two-step thermoforming process:
- Step 1
Hot Consolidation
Pressure is applied and fabric formed into mould. Fabric temperature is raised to forming temperature, melting the copolymer “cap” coat. The sample is held at forming temperature for the compression time. - Step 2
Cold Consolidation
The mould is chilled resulting in rapid cooling of the formed part under pressure.