Numerical Analysis of the Impact of Process Parameters on the Residual Stress of a Flat Composite Part

This paper presents a numerical approach to assess the influence of process parameters on a composite part’s mechanical properties. A one-dimensional thermochemical model is used to predict the curing progress of the resin during the curing cycle. Material properties are derived using the cure hardening instantaneous linear elastic model, and a refined one-dimensional model derived within the Carrera Unified Formulation framework is used to obtain accurate results concerning process-induced stresses. Various process parameters, such as the holding temperature and heating rate, are evaluated. The results show that some process parameters, such as the fiber volume fraction and holding temperature, significantly influence composite characteristics and process-induced stresses. It is also shown that modifications to curing cycles leading to reduced energy overhead may not affect performances.