Mechanical design aspects of 3.0 m Dia, 7 m length computer controlled autoclave

Composite materials because of their superior and special13; properties are being used for a variety of applications,13; starting from sports goods to highly critical Aerospace13; Structures. One important process parameter in the manufacture of composite materials is the curing. To achieve good quality composite components normally, the curing is carried out in an Autoclave. Autoclave is a pressure vessel in which pressure, temperature and vacuum can be applied in a programmed way. The actual variation of temperature, pressure and vacuum in a cure cycle depends upon the resin system and the component. To apply the correct cure 'cycle for a given resin system and component, now a days computer controlled Autocalves are being used. At present these Autoclaves are being imported by various organisations. NAL proposes to develop this modern Autoclave Technology indigenously. This report gives the mechanical design aspects of the Autoclave