Automation
Variable-axial composites open path to lighter composite structures
CFRP recurve bow riser demonstrates design and manufacturing approach with potential to cut weight vs. aluminum by 50-75% while increasing strength and stiffness.
Read MoreAddressing workforce challenges in the composites industry
Baby Boomers, workforce development and automation.
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Automated Preforming, Part 3: Quilted Stratum Process
CW’s tour of Cetim and the QSP line which preforms multi-thickness thermoplastic materials in 40-90 seconds for composite parts with cycle times of 1-2 minutes.
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Automated Preforming, Part 2: Glide Forming
Flat layups are shaped into stringers with different cross-sections, lengths, thicknesses and curvatures using a single machine at rates up to 10 mm per second.
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Preforming goes industrial: Part 1
ATL and AFP-based preforming options now abound for processing dry and/or impregnated reinforcements as quickly as 1 minute or less with potential yearly part yields in the millions.
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Automated Preforming, Part 1: Numbers and Landscape
CW’s multi-blog series on preforming begins with an overview and quick look at the numbers: 1-minute take time, 10-15 seconds per layer, 490-kg/hr and 3.5 million parts/year. Are you ready for serial CFRP production?
Read MoreProcess automation: A model response to Trumponomics and Brexit?
Offshoring can’t go on forever and a significant trend toward reshoring is probably inevitable.
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Ceramic matrix composites: Hot engine solution
Disruptive designs for composites operation in 1093°C zones.
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JEC 2017 – Aiming for Industrialization
The exhibit floor in Paris reflected composites’ move toward high-rate and high-volume production.
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500,000 parts per year? No problem!
BENTELER-SGL develops fully automated HP-RTM production of the weight- and space-saving composite leaf spring for Volvo’s multi-model SPA global platform.
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