Aggregate-based mandrels for composite part production and composite part production methods
US9314941B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 29, 2012 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 29, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2909/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for forming a composite structure, using a mandrel that is later removed from the composite structure, involves production of a mandrel by depositing a particulate mixture, including an aggregate and a binder, into a mold and removing the mandrel from the mold. The mandrel may be treated while still in the mold by heating, curing with an agent, microwave energy, or by some combination thereof. Once finished, the mandrel can be used in manufacturing polymer and/or composite components. The mandrel can also include materials that can be easily removed from the finished composite structure by water, shakeout, chemically dissolving, or by some combination thereof. The mandrel can be a self-expanding mandrel, and can be used in a process or system for the manufacture of composite structures.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.