MSC Software revealed that FINCANTIERI Group’s research and development subsidiary, CETENA, uses MSC Marc to study and maximize the curing method of epoxy resin with composite materials.
Epoxy resin, a thermosetting polymer, achieves its maximum mechanical properties once it is fully cross-linked. Based on the thermal cycle utilized during the curing method and resin’s curing level, the properties of the composite material and the resin, which is utilized as a matrix, can be modified.
The thermal cycle is identified via a robust exothermic process that results in enormous rise in temperature. The consequential thermal degradation of the material decreases the mechanical and physical characteristics of the component. Thus, it is important to cautiously design the curing method’s thermal cycle in order to maintain the temperature elevation within suitable limits.
CETENA’s Matteo Codda commented that the numerical simulation using MSC Marc is critical in selecting a suitable thermal cycle for the curing method, as it allows the company to simulate the heat production and transmission in the material during the curing process and its heat exchange with the surrounding.
The Vice President of Product Management for MSC Software, Ken Welch stated that the company will continue its efforts to enhance the simulation and modeling of composite materials in order to assist product manufacturers to use improved design and development processes.