Simulation of the distribution of state of cure for multi-stage curing processes

The selection of a curing process for a molded elastomeric component is frequently carried out with consideration given to the elastomer compound characteristics, the geometry of the component, the molding equipment available, and the resulting cost of the process. In this work the effect of multi-stage cure processes on the distribution of state of cure in a component is examined. Cure processes that include elastomer preheat, press cures, oven bake steps, and cool down cycles are considered. The focus is to discern the effect of the molding process on the distribution of the state of cure within the component for processes that yield a technologically acceptable state of cure. The results are analyzed in terms of providing guidance toward optimization of state of cure distributions via practical molding process variables.