Effect of stamp forming parameters and bend radius on the mechanical performance of curved beam carbon fiber/polyphenylene sulfide specimens
The stamp forming process is used to manufacture S shape parts made of carbon fiber/polyphenylene sulfide thermoplastic composites. The processing parameters and part layup, thickness, and bend radius are varied in order to investigate their effects on the parts' quality and mechanical performance. The interlaminar tensile strength of the formed parts is measured using the results of curved beam four point bending tests and recommended analytical equations. A nonlinear finite element model of the tested coupons is developed, taking into account the contact between the loading bars and the coupon as well as the plies' interface properties. The results of the model are used to verify the precision of the analytical equations for various bend radii and part layup and thickness. Conclusions as to the optimum set of processing parameters that should be used for the stamp forming of carbon fiber/polyphenylene sulfide are drawn.