Modelling manufacturing deformations in corner sections made of composite materials

A three-step finite element model has been implemented to predict the spring-in of L-shaped parts. The material property development during the cure has been modelled as step changes during transitions between viscous, rubbery and glassy states of the resin. The tool-part interaction is modelled as a sliding interface with a constant sliding shear stress. The effect of various material and geometric variables on the deformation of L-Section parts are investigated by a parameter sensitivity analysis. The spring-in predictions obtained by the finite element method are compared to experimental measurements for unidirectional and cross-ply parts of various thicknesses and radii. Results indicate that although a 2D plane strain model can predict the spring-in measured at the symmetry plane fairly well, it is not sufficient to capture the complex deformation patterns observed. © The Author(s) 2013 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.