Engineering Research Equipment Grants: Autoclave for Processing Composites

研究的主要目标是为复合材料的智能加工提供科学基础，为复合材料的创新利用提供方法。具体而言，研究涉及过程监测、过程表征、加工机制、加工-结构关系、结构-性能关系以及各向异性和非均质性的协同效应。研究设备（高压灭菌器）提供了处理复合材料的迫切需要的能力。它将用于开发最佳的加工周期，识别关键的制造缺陷，并制造层压板和层压结构，以支持其他复合材料的研究。与目前可用的纤维缠绕机一起，高压灭菌器将允许研究新的材料组合和新的结构概念。研究结果可为复合材料集成计算机辅助制造（ICAM）技术的发展提供基础。如果没有成熟的ICAM技术，国家在制造和应用这类重要材料方面的技术领先地位是无法维持的，这一点怎么强调都不为过。

The main objectives of the research are to develop the science base for intelligent processing of composites and to develop methods for innovative utilization of composites. Specifically, the research addresses process monitoring, process characterization, mechanics of processing, processing-structure relations, structure-property relations, and the synergistic effect of anisotropy and heterogeneity. The research equipment (an autoclave) provides the critically needed capability to process composite materials. It will be used to develop optimum processing cyles, to identify critical manufacturing flaws, and to fabricate laminates and laminated structures in support of other composites research. Together with a filament winding machine currently available, the autoclave will allow the study of new material combinations and new structural concepts as well. The results of this research may provide the foundation for the development of integrated computer-aided manufacturing (ICAM) technology for composites. It is impossible to overemphasize the fact that the nation's technological leadership in the manufacture and application of this important class of materials cannot be maintained without a mature ICAM technology.