Draping and Thermoforming Simulation
PAM-FORM, a composite forming simulation module within PAM-COMPOSITES, is used to simulate the preforming process of dry textiles or the thermoforming process of fiber reinforced composite materials made of thermoset or thermoplastic resins (organo-sheets).
PAM-FORM allows you to model a wide range of processes including:
- stamping using two rigid molds
- rubber pad forming
- composites thermoforming
- diaphragm forming pre-pregs forming simulation
Preforming simulation of an automotive B-Pillar
This module can be used to predict phenomena such as:
- fiber orientation
- thickness distribution
- optimum initial flat pattern
- strains
- stresses
- bridging
- wrinkling
Additionally, these results are available at the laminate level as well as the ply level, allowing you to predict a case of internal wrinkles, for example.
PAM-FORM includes material models for UD (UniDirectional), NCF (Non Crimp Fabric), woven fabric, dry textile, thermoset prepreg and organo-sheet.
With PAM-FORM, manufacturing defects are eliminated and product quality is improved upfront in the product development process, before any tools are cut, thanks to optimization of the following areas:
- tool velocity
- temperature and pressure cycle
- clamping conditions and force
- laminate sequence, ply orientations
- tooling design
Simulation can also be used later in the process to correct manufacturing issues after they are identified.
ESI group has a webinar covering PAM-FORM.