Laser-based repair of carbon fiber reinforced plastics

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Laser-based repair of carbon fiber reinforced plastics

Fischer, F. / Romoli, L. / Kling, R.

It has been proved that DPSS (Diode Pumped Solid State) laser emitting in the UV region represents a promising alternative for processing of 'difficult-to-machine' materials, like CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics) especially in the field of precise machining represented by the laminates repair process. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed technique making use of a new generation of tripled frequency DPSSL lasers allows a removal process of CF-PEEK which is not affected by thermal damage. Moreover this new process is fast enough to guarantee a successful economic implementation. The strength of the repair patch and the performances obtained by the laser-based repair process have to be investigated according to the standard test method ASTM D1002. The increase in scarf angle which characterizes the step cavity, provides a further possibility of process optimisation. The ratio conventionally used in the manual process is limited to 1:20, due to the geometries of the grinding tools. This problem was solved with scanning technology whose 5 micron resolution allows ratios of 1:10 or 1:5. This decreases the cavity dimensions and consequently the process time. The effective strength of laminates repaired with these ratios represents a further objective for a future research as well as the certification and standardization of the proposed technique for the aerospace sector.