CCT CCT Curing Processes & Autoclave Operations

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of an autoclave in composite manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

To apply simultaneous heat and pressure for curing composite laminates

Answer

An autoclave applies controlled heat and elevated pressure simultaneously to consolidate and cure composite laminates, producing high-quality, low-void parts.

Question 2

What is the typical autoclave pressure used for curing carbon fiber/epoxy aerospace composites?

Accepted Answer

85 to 100 psi (approximately 6 bar)

Answer

Aerospace carbon fiber/epoxy composites are typically cured at 85 to 100 psi to consolidate plies and minimize void content to meet structural requirements.

Question 3

What does a cure cycle define in composite autoclave processing?

Accepted Answer

The time-temperature-pressure profile followed during laminate cure

Answer

A cure cycle defines the specific time, temperature, and pressure ramp rates and dwell periods that ensure proper resin flow, consolidation, and crosslinking.

Question 4

What is the purpose of pulling vacuum on the bag during autoclave composite processing?

Accepted Answer

To remove volatiles and entrapped air before and during cure

Answer

Vacuum removes entrapped air and volatiles from the laminate stack before and during cure, reducing void content in the finished part.

Question 5

What is the role of thermocouples during an autoclave cure cycle?

Accepted Answer

To monitor part and tooling temperatures and verify the cure cycle is achieved

Answer

Thermocouples attached to the tool and part surfaces monitor actual temperatures to verify the cure cycle is followed and identify hot or cold spots.

CCT - Certified Composite Technician Practice Test

CCT - Certified Composite Technician Practice Test

CCT CCT Curing Processes & Autoclave Operations