Abstract: The present example provides a scalable tooling system using highly parallel convection heating for processing of high temperature composite materials. A single-sided mold is provided with vacuum pressure to cast and consolidate a raw material. The mold is integrally heated by a plurality of discretized heat sources providing a plurality of convection airflow sources to minimize the hot and cold spots inherit to typical convection oven processing. Airflow is arranged by orifices aligned conformally to the mold's profile surface such that rapid heating rates may be achieved while maintaining temperature control along the mold surface.

Abstract: The present example provides a scalable tooling system using highly parallel convection heating for processing of high temperature composite materials. A single-sided mold is provided with vacuum pressure to cast and consolidate a raw material. The mold is integrally heated by a plurality of discretized heat sources providing a plurality of convection airflow sources to minimize the hot and cold spots inherit to typical convection oven processing. Airflow is arranged by orifices aligned conformally to the mold's profile surface such that rapid heating rates may be achieved while maintaining temperature control along the mold surface.