The Advanced Composite Research Unit (ACRU) Composites Laboratory houses an American autoclave, which is used for the manufacturing of high-quality polymer matrix composite components.
The autoclave is used for the curing of polymer matrix composites under high pressure and temperature, with pre-programmed cure cycles and sensors for precision monitoring of cure quality. Composite parts and specimens of the highest quality commonly required for aerospace applications can be manufactured using the autoclave.Â
- Size: 500mm diameter and 910mm length
- Working temperature: 430°C
- Maximum allowable working pressure: 21 bars
- Pressurising medium: gaseous nitrogen
The autoclave is used for undergraduate thesis work, and postgraduate and academic research.