Abstract: A mold and a method for molding high strength, non-metallic fiber reinforced composite parts having a variety of (e.g., cylindrical) shapes that are lighter in weight than similar parts manufactured from metal. An unmolded non-metallic pre-form having long continuous fibers is placed around a mandrel, and a segmented, adjustable diameter compression ring is disposed in surrounding engagement with the pre-form at an upper position within an inwardly tapered compression ring support. The compression ring is formed from a plurality of loose compression ring segments that are initially spaced circumferentially from one another at the upper position of the compression ring support. The mandrel and the pre-form are first heated and then located in a press.

Abstract: A method for making a composite rivet and upsetting the composite rivet after the rivet has been inserted through (e.g., composite) structural members to be held together. The rivet includes a core having continuous and unidirectionally extending fibers that are reinforced by a thermoplastic resin. The core is surrounded by a braided jacket having fibers arranged in a criss-cross weave. A forming die guide having a containment opening extending therethrough is positioned so that the upstanding end of the composite rivet is received within the containment opening. A heated forming die having a forming cavity is moved into the containment opening of the forming die guide so as to lie in axial alignment with the upstanding end of the rivet. A ram forces the heated forming die through the containment opening so that the upstanding end of the rivet is softened and upset within the forming cavity.

Abstract: A method for making a composite rivet and upsetting the composite rivet after the rivet has been inserted through (e.g., composite) structural members to be held together. The rivet includes a core having continuous and unidirectionally extending fibers that are reinforced by a thermoplastic resin. The core is surrounded by a braided jacket having fibers arranged in a criss-cross weave. A forming die guide having a containment opening extending therethrough is positioned so that the upstanding end of the composite rivet is received within the containment opening. A heated forming die having a forming cavity is moved into the containment opening of the forming die guide so as to lie in axial alignment with the upstanding end of the rivet. A ram forces the heated forming die through the containment opening so that the upstanding end of the rivet is softened and upset within the forming cavity.