Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling exotherms in a fibrous preform during carbonization include one or more temperature control channels disposed in a heat treatment tooling fixture. A fluid may be moved through the temperature control channel(s) for controlling a temperature of the fibrous preform as the fibrous preform is heated during carbonization. A fluid source and a valve arrangement may be controlled for regulating a flow of fluid through the temperature control channel(s). In this manner, the fibrous preform may be uniformly brought to a temperature range such that shrinking of the fibrous preform occurs simultaneously and uniformly throughout the fibrous preform.

Abstract: Systems and methods for performing an in-tool carbonization process including exotherm control on a fibrous preform includes one or more temperature control channels disposed in a heat treatment tooling fixture. A fluid may be moved through the temperature control channel(s) for controlling a temperature of the fibrous preform as the fibrous preform is heated during carbonization. A fluid source, a valve arrangement, and one or more heaters can be controlled for regulating a temperature and/or flow rate of fluid through the temperature control channel(s). In this manner, the fibrous preform may be uniformly brought to an exotherm temperature range such that shrinking of the fibrous preform occurs simultaneously and uniformly throughout the fibrous preform. The temperature control channels can be grouped by geographic location for zoned temperature control. The carbonization process can be performed using a single composite fixture or using both metallic and composite fixtures.

Abstract: A fastener insert includes a hollow shaft extending in an axial direction. The hollow shaft is configured to receive a threaded fastener at a first axial end of the hollow shaft. The fastener insert also includes a supporting flange extending radially outward from a second axial end of the hollow shaft. The hollow shaft includes an internally threaded shaft portion. The internally threaded shaft portion is configured to secure the threaded fastener received in the hollow shaft. The hollow shaft also includes a resilient shaft portion formed as a unitary single piece with the internally threaded shaft portion.