Research on numerical simulation of heating process optimization of heated-mandrel winding method

The heated-mandrel winding method (HMWM) is a new technology. However, the trial-and-error method usually used is not universally adopted in the manufacturing process of shells that have different shapes and performance requirements. Determining the heating process for the HMWM based on theoretical analysis has become an immediate problem. In this paper, a numerical simulation program for the HMWM is developed using the finite element software ANSYS and the programming language APDL. The entire process, which starts with the winding process and ends with the complete curing, is numerically simulated. The temperature distribution and change law, curing degree, and reactive calorific intensity are analyzed. The relationship between the heating process and the outer surface temperature changes of the composite shell is derived based on the principle of temperature control in the HMWM. The heating process is optimized in accordance with the analysis, and the experimental results show that, based on the optimized heating process, the outer surface temperature range of the shell can be controlled during the winding process. Furthermore, the complex interactions among the temperature, curing degree, film coefficient, and heat transfer coefficient of the composite are investigated. This provides the basis for the technology optimization based on theoretical considerations.