Continued...
Finally, the component and tool are loaded into an autoclave with a pressurised air system that forces the panel on to the face of the tool and completes the shape-forming procedure while the panel undergoes heat treatment. This lasts up to 24 hours.
Computer modelling enables airflow within the autoclave to be optimised, so speeding up the transfer of heat to the panels.
Achieving the near net forms over complex aerodynamic profiles required the tooling surfaces to be absolutely correct. This need was met by an innovative analysis and optimisation process driven by Airbus but also incorporating techniques from other companies such as QinetiQ (previously DERA) and Bennetts.
In order to mimimise implementation risk and reduce lead-time, an integrated process modelling system was developed by Airbus and its technology partners that could determine the over-formed tool shape required to produce an aerodynamically correct component.
Trial surfaces consisting of clouds of up to 500,000 points were transmitted to Bennett Associates for translation into a CAD model.
Delivering a panel to the creep forming tool
Wrapping a wing skin and tool before creep forming in the autoclave
