Design & Tooling

Shared databases will expand composites use, in aerospace and beyond

CW Conferences director Scott Stephenson recalls some telling conference comments made by NIAR’s Yeow Ng on the subject of shared databases.

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The Combined Loading Compression (CLC) test method

Dr. Don Adams discusses the relative merits of the ASTM-adopted combined loading compression (CLC) test method.

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NDT

Carbon fiber/PEEK takes hydraulic pump to new depths

A switch from metal to composites reduces weight, minimizes part deflection in ultradeep ocean installations.

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ATL/AFP

Carrier-capable, all-composite external fuel tank

Legacy product positions builder for a shot at an F-35 contract.

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Tabbing composite test specimens: The how

The when and why of tabbing composite test specimens were the subjects of my previous column (see “Tabbng composite test specimens: When and why," under "Editor's Picks," at right), which included a discussion of tabbing materials, tab thickness and taper angle, and adhesive selection.

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Software eases design/build for exotic exercise bike

The Lamiflex Group (Bergamo, Italy) helps Milan, Italy-based design house Luca Schieppati develop the Ciclotte, a striking luxury exercise bicycle made with carbon fiber composites.

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Water tree: Single complex mold shapes unique composite sculpture

To fabricate a complex design for a lighted sculpture, sculptor Lawrence Argent taps the talents of composites specialists Kreysler and Assoc. (American Canyon, Calif.).

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Tabbing composite test specimens: When and why

Dr. Don Adams (Wyoming Test Fixtures Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah) discusses when and why test specimens must be protected by tabs.

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Molds/Tools

Proper mold care: Mandatory!

CT surveys mold care product suppliers for guidance through the critical steps of mold preparation and maintenance.

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Out of Autoclave

Low-volume thermoplastics: Differential pressure molding

Cost-effective tooling and presses enable semi-automated prototyping and low-volume production of thermoplastic composites.

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