| abstract |
A hollow composite body includes an internal layer formed from a thermoplastic, which constitutes the liner of the body, a composite interlayer formed from a thermoplastic in which reinforcing fibers are embedded, and an external layer formed from a thermoplastic. The hollow composite body is made by furnishing the external surface of the liner with a composite so as to constitute a preform, the composite consisting of a thermoplastic mixed with reinforcing fibers; introducing the preform into a mold, an inflatable bladder having been inserted into the preform; heating the preform and inflating the inside of the bladder in order to apply pressure against the internal wall of the preform. A space between the external wall of the preform and the internal wall of the mold is tailored to the thickness of the external layer of the hollow body to be obtained, so as to allow migration of the thermoplastic of the interlayer, and possibly of the liner, beyond the interlayer during the heating and pressure application step. |