Simulation of Wrinkling during Forming of Binder Stabilized UD-NCF Preforms in Wind Turbine Blade Manufacturing

Binder stabilized preforms are getting increased attention in the wind turbine industry with aim to increase automation production of large blades. In this context a preform is stack dry unidirectional glass fiber non-crimp fabrics (UD-NCF), which consolidated using polymeric binder. The manufactured separate mold, and subsequently placed main blade mold. During placement preforms, wrinkling may occur due deformation preform. To accommodate problem, we propose predictive simulation model that can be used investigate how different process parameters influence wrinkle creation. Most forming models literature consider frictional laws inter-ply interface for multi-layered fabrics. work binder interfaces between layers modelled cohesive traction-separation law accurately degradation creation during deformation. predictions compared full thickness coupon specimens.