Controlling the edge effect using a bypass conductor for induction welding of carbon fibre thermoplastic composites

Abstract

Carbon fibre thermoplastic composites can be induction welded thanks to the electrical conductive nature of carbon fibre. Due to a locally contrained current flow more heat is generated at the edges of the composites. To counteract this so called edge effect a highly conductive material is attached to the edge to create an electrical bypass. The effect of a thin copper bypass has been assessed by performing induction heating experiments on single and double carbon fibre PPS composite coupons. The induction parameters where chosen such that without a bypass the edge would locally reach the melting temperature. The results clearly show the ability of the copper bypass to reduce the edge effect and prevent overheating at the edge.