Calculation and analysis of curing deformation of U-shaped leading edge of aramid-layer sandwich structures

With the U-shaped leading edge made of aramid laminate as the focus of this study, we have developed models for both the curing temperature field and the curing deformation field, aiming to unravel the underlying mechanisms of its curing deformation. Our investigation delves into the various influence patterns of core materials, the sequence of the inner skin laying-up, and the structure of the leading edge on the overall curing deformation of the component. The findings reveal that rigid foam characterized by a high elastic modulus effectively supports the inner skin under curing pressure, thereby minimizing internal defects and curing deformation within the core material. Compared with the core material, the sequence of the inner skin laying-up and the design of the leading edge structure exert a more profound influence on the curing deformation of the component. Taking into account the post-curing neck-in and torsional deformation stemming from the component’s asymmetry, we have found that employing the [0/45/−45/0/0/0/45] laying-up sequence for the inner skin achieves minimal curing deformation.