Cure cycle

The curing of composite laminates in a heated pressure vessel, which applies elevated temperature and gas pressure in addition to vacuum-bag consolidation. The combination suppresses voids and delivers the high, repeatable laminate quality required for primary aerospace structures.

The heat released by a thermosetting resin as it cures. In thick sections or large mixed volumes the temperature rise can be severe enough to cause discolouration, cracking or degradation, so laminate thickness per pass and mixing quantities are managed to control it.

The temperature region over which an amorphous or partly amorphous polymer changes from a rigid, glassy state to a softer, rubbery one. It sets a practical upper service temperature for resins and adhesives and can be reduced by absorbed moisture or incomplete cure.