The three popular molding techniques for carbon fiber products include compression molding, autoclave molding, and filament winding. Among these, carbon fiber products shaped through compression molding showcase superior surface quality and are extensively utilized across various industries.
The molding temperature during compression molding significantly influences the melting and flow of carbon fiber materials and the crosslinking reaction rate of the resin, ultimately impacting the overall quality of carbon fiber products.
Within an optimal temperature range, an increase in mold temperature accelerates the flow of resin in carbon fiber prepregs and the crosslinking and curing between prepreg layers, thereby enhancing production efficiency. However, if the temperature rises excessively and rapidly, it may lead to premature crosslinking and curing between the layers of carbon fiber prepreg. This can result in inconsistent curing between the inner and outer layers of the material within the mold cavity. The surface material may harden first, and when the inner layer cures, certain crosslinking byproducts may struggle to escape outward, potentially causing defects such as bulges, cracks, and excessively thick board layers in the product.
On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, the material’s fluidity decreases, and the crosslinking reaction of the prepreg cannot proceed adequately, affecting the curing outcome. Consequently, the mechanical properties of carbon fiber products may be compromised, and low temperatures can also lead to incomplete curing and surface swelling of the product.
It is important to note that different carbon fiber products require varying molding temperatures, and there is no one-size-fits-all standard.
