Expendable Composite-Layup Dies From Rapid-Prototype Masters

A method that exploits rapid prototyping has been conceived to reduce the time and cost associated with the production of small quantities of composite-material parts that have complex shapes. In this method, mandrels and dies used in forming composite layups are sized and shaped by molding them on rapid-prototype masters and are made of disintegrating mold material (DMM). The method is particularly suitable for manufacturing ventilating air ducts and water ducts for the International Space Station and manifolds and ducts for low-temperature [