Simulation of the tape laying process with steering of tapes: Bonding defects prevention using simulation

Abstract

The tape laying process is used in manufacturing composite materials. This process has recently gained importance since it started to be used for the aeronautical industry for manufacturing structural composite parts such as wings. However, this process may generate defects. This article uses simulations to understand the process, and mainly the laying process with steering of tapes, and defines the best mechanical parameters that could be used in order to avoid bonding defects. Simulation enables to cover the required parameters that help avoid bonding defects. These parameters include the tape geometry and laying curvature.