Numerical modelling of the microwave assisted pultrusion process

This paper deals with the computational modelling ofthe an innovative variant of the conventional pultrusion process, called the microwave assisted pultrusion processes. The model is based on two weakly coupled sub-model, the electromagnetic sub-model, used to evaluate the electric field distribution and the heat generation rate due to the microwave source and the thermochemical sub-model, used to evaluate the temperature and degree of cure distributions. Performed simulations, obtained solving the formulated theoretical problem using a finite element scheme, evidence the process capabilities, the relevance of an opportune design of the microwave cavity and of the curing die, and the importance of the dielectric properties of the used materials.