Self-resistance heating forming and performance analysis of Al/PEEK/CFRP laminates

To shorten the preparation cycle of Al/PEEK/CFRP laminates fabricated by Al sheets, peek films, and CFRP prepreg and reduce energy consumption during the preparation process to ensure the highest quality laminates, a novel forming process based on self-resistance electric (SRE) heating was proposed. Considering the tensile properties, fracture morphology, and void content comprehensively, the influence of current intensity (11.5, 12.5, 13.5 A) on the forming quality of laminates was explored. This optimized electric heating process was compared with the traditional heating process with respect to forming time, energy consumption, and the performance of the prepared samples. The results show that when the current is 12.5 A, the molding quality of the samples prepared by the SRE process is better than that of the traditional process. In addition, the SRE process significantly reduces forming times and saves energy. This SRE heating method provides a new process optimization pathway for the preparation and formation of fiber metal laminates and exhibits great prospects for future research.