Rotational moulding for small diameter continuous fibre reinforced thermoplastics structures

Continuous-reinforced thermoplastic composites are becoming increasingly important for mass production of lightweight components across various industrial sectors. This paper describes a novel process chain for the production of continuous fibre reinforced thermoplastic matrices with a rotationally symmetric cross-section, using rotational moulding technology. The process chain is based on wound and pre-consolidated preforms, which are then formed into the final geometry by rotational moulding. To support the manufacturing of smaller diameters, a composite core is used to increase the pressure during manufacture. The experimental results are examined by cross-sectional micrographs and show the approach’s feasibility.