New research provides guidance for optimized thermoplastic composite overmolding

 

Overmolding is a technology in which a thermoplastic composite laminate is thermoformed and subsequently injection overmolded. This near-net-shape manufacturing process is well suited for automated large series production of complex 3D structures with excellent structural performance and a high level of function integration.

However, the industry lacks process design tools. Responding to this need, researchers at the ThermoPlastic composite Research Center (TPRC, Enschede, Netherlands) analyzed the overmolding process, focusing on the bond strength between the overmolded composite laminate and the injected polymer resin/reinforced composites. Using process modeling and mechanical testing, they evaluated both a single-step and a dual-step process. Results showed distinctly different process mechanisms and resulting material structure and mechanical performance in the overmolded composite parts.

Starting from De Gennes' classical reptation theory for reptation and healing of amorphous polymers, an alternative approach was developed to describe the strength development for semi-crystalline materials. A rudimentary description of the degree of melting was implemented to predict the bond strength as a function of the thermo-mechanical history at the interface during forming and subsequent resin injection for PA6 and PEEK, both semi-crystalline matrix materials.

The full article, “Analysis of the Thermoplastic Composite Overmolding Process: Interface Strength” can be found in Frontiers in Materials. Read more about TPRC’s overmolding research here.