3-D stamp forming of thermoplastic matrix composites

In this investigation a mould with hemispherical cavity and 80 kN hydraulic press, allowing variable stamping speeds, are employed for experimentally studying of the 3-D stamp forming process of continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic laminates. In particular, glass fiber (GF) reinforced polyetherimide (PEI) woven fabric made of sheath surrounded, polymer powder impregnated fiber bundles manufactured by Enichem, Italy, is used. Pre-consolidated laminates are heated by contact heating in an external heater up to about 120°C above the glass transition temperature (T _g) of the polymer matrix; they are then stamp formed in a cold matched metal tool. Typical cycle times (including preheating time of the preconsolidated laminates) are in the range of 3 min. Useful processing conditions, such as stamping temperature, stamping velocity and hold-down pressure required for stamp forming of this composite are determined. In addition the effect of die geometries (deformation radian) and original laminate dimensions are studied. The results describe the correlations between processing parameters and fiber buckling. Finally the thickness distribution in stamped parts are investigated in relation to different directions of fiber orientation.