Infrastructure
Aircraft simulation gets composites aware
Rapid software evolution enables faster, better virtual solutions to complex composite design problems.
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Infrastructure rallying cry
One of the buzz phrases surrounding President Obama's stimulus legislation is “infrastructure construction.” Composites professionals know that if we want a lasting solution to current civil infrastructure needs, 21st Century materials and technology must be used. We know that composites offer that option. But they — government officals, civil engineers and other decision-makers — don’t know.Who will tell them, if not us?
Read MoreFiber reinforcement forms
Rovings, the most common form of glass, can be chopped, woven or otherwise processed to create secondary fiber forms for composite manufacturing, such as mats, woven fabrics, braids, knitted fabrics and hybrid fabrics. Rovings are supplied by weight, with a specified filament diameter. The term yield is commonly used
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Integrated drop-in-place superstructure the solution for Eight Mile Bridge
Based on the successful performance of previous composite bridge decks installed in Hamilton County, Ohio, highway engineers recently took a bold step, specifying an integrated composite bridge superstructure — that is, deck and support beams together in one unit — to replace a deficient span known as Eight Mile Bridge.
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Competitive to the core
 This new superyacht combines luxury innovations with energy-efficient construction, enabled by a new marine-grade balsa core.
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Wind Blade Manufacturing, Part I: M and P innovations optimize production
 As demand for wind turbines reaches unprecedented levels, rotor blade manufacturers explore new production strategies, including automation and blade segmentation.
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New Bridge Deck Bests Early FRP Systems
Mechanically fastened, two-piece composite deck system addresses challenges inherent in previous fiber-reinforced polymer deck designs, lowering cost, speeding installation and reducing maintenance.
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ATL and AFP: Signs of evolution in machine process control
Improved machine-control software, placement accuracy and design simulation have made automated fiber placement and tape laying machines truly production-worthy. The evolution, however, still continues.
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Structural health monitoring: Composites get smart
New initiatives are mainstreaming real-time monitoring systems into composites on aircraft, wind blades and other critical performance structures.
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Alternative energy growth creating secular demand for composites
Alternative energy sources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal, are finally emerging as contenders alongside our primary electric-power-producing fossil fuels, natural gas and coal (but not oil), primarily because these technologies are ready for widespread distribution and adoption, based on average pricing for electricity.
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