Modelling of thermoplastic compression moulding

Compression moulding of all-thermoplastic composite and sandwich components has been modelled focusing on the resulting degree of bonding between the welded components. Heat transfer and matrix flow increasing the contact area between the components have been considered in the models. Numerical examples are calculated to illustrate the behaviour of each model. The purpose of the presented work is to, through modelling, enhance the understanding of the mechanisms included in bonding of thermoplastic composite and sandwich components and to point to process parameters which significantly influence the final quality of the bond.