Reusable Internal Mandrels For Composites Repair or Fabrication

R4 (Rapid, Reusable, Repeatable, Removable) tooling system. In this project a method of making and using a reusable mandrel, which can be made rigid for use as a tool for formation of the internal surfaces of composite parts, will be developed. This closed system makes it environmentally safe and eliminates cure times. In this project the intension is to provide a reusable mandrel for forming internally-sized parts, such as ducting, that can be made at a reasonable cost, can be reused many times, is quick to reset, produces higher quality composite material products, and produces no waste product for disposal. This system may be adapted for use with existing systems and has the potential to increase production and produce an improved working environment.