Three-Dimensional FE–NCV Modeling of Thermoplastic Composites Pultrusion

Abstract

A three-dimensional (3D) model for the simulation of the thermoplastic pultrusion process is developed. The simulation procedure and algorithms are based on the Finite Element–Nodal Control Volume (FE–NCV) approach. For illustration purposes, APC-2 CF–PEEK is used as a candidate material along with multiheater steel die assemblies. Heat transfer in the die and the composite is modeled using FEs whereas NCVs are used to model crystallization kinetics and heat of reaction for PEEK. The developed simulation procedure is validated using available data. Subsequently, versatility of the model for simulating various types of die assembly and transient heat transfer effects on crystallization is demonstrated.

Keywords

thermoplastic composites finite element analysis pultrusion

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