Composites Fabrication using Compression Molding

 

 

Cure procedure for IM7/8551

 

 

 

  1. Hold laminate at a full vacuum for 30 minutes.

    2.  

  2. Rapidly apply 2500 lb. load and increase the temperature to 240oF +-10o; Maintain the pressure constant (must monitor during the first 20 minutes).

    3.  

  3. Hold the laminate at 240oF for 1 hour with the 2500 lb. load applied.

    4.  

  4. Increase the load to 3500 lb., Increase the temperature to 350oF +-10o and vent the vacuum.

    5.  

  5. Hold laminate at 350oF for 1.5 hours.

    6.  

  6. Apply a full vacuum and turn off the heated platens; allow to cool to 200oF then remove the plate from the press (Do not allow the plate to cool to room temperature in the press – severe warping will occur)

    7.  

  7. Allow the plate to cool to room temperature on a flat surface and then remove the plate from the vacuum bagging.