Resistance Seam Welding of Carbon Fiber Semi-finished Products

Abstract

The DLR preforming process for carbon-fiber textiles as part of the RTM-Process chain consists of automated draping, a new binder activation process through electrical resistance heating, consolidation inside a membrane press and trimming of the preform to net shape [1]. This paper investigates, whether activation by roller electrode, through electrical resistance heating, has the ability to replace conventional consolidation methods. Furthermore a model for the theoretical surface temperatures after activation was developed and compared to the measured temperatures. Different set-ups (variation of width, speed, number of plies and line loads) have been tested and the electrical efficiency and compaction of the preform has been measured.