Patent ID: 7922957
Filing Date: 2011-04-12
Classification: B29C

Abstract:
1. A method of making a composite component, wherein the method comprises the steps of: providing a mould for the receipt of a material from which the component is to be made; providing the mould with said material; providing an intensification tool in spaced relationship to the mould; and heating the material, tool and mould so that the tool expands and applies pressure to the material, and so as to form the component, wherein the linear coefficient of thermal expansion of the tool in a first direction is matched to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the component in the first direction, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the tool in a second direction is greater than the coefficient of thermal expansion of the component in the second direction, and the tool being provided with at least one contacting surface for contacting the material and through which pressure is applied to the material, the expansion of the tool in the second direction causing the at least one contacting surface to contact, and exert pressure on, the material.