Ketones
Tooling (2015)
Composite parts are formed in molds, also known as tools. Tools can be made from virtually any material. The material type, shape and complexity depend upon the part and length of production run. Here's a short summary of the issues involved in electing and making tools.
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Fiber reinforcement forms
Fibers used to reinforce composites are supplied directly by fiber manufacturers and indirectly by converters in a number of different forms, which vary depending on the application. Here's a guide to what's available.
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The matrix (2015)
The matrix binds the fiber reinforcement, gives the composite component its shape and determines its surface quality. A composite matrix may be a polymer, ceramic, metal or carbon. Here's a guide to selection.
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Fabrication methods (2015)
There are numerous methods for fabricating composite components. Selection of a method for a particular part, therefore, will depend on the materials, the part design and end-use or application. Here's a guide to selection.
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Plant tour: ATK Aerospace Structures, Clearfield, Utah, U.S.
High-volume, high-precision fiber and tape placement for the aerospace industry are among many specialties for this composites manufacturing behemoth.
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A critical market sector: Downhole composites in oil and gas
Tremendous secrecy and non-disclosure has kept this profitable composites application out of the spotlight, while it has enabled the current shale oil energy boom.
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CAMX 2014 show report
Bigger, better and more inclusive than any previous U.S. composites trade event, the inaugural show turns North American eyes forward to the future.
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Recycled carbon fiber update: Closing the CFRP lifecycle loop
Commercial production of recycled carbon fiber currently outpaces applications for it, but materials characterization and new technology demonstrations promise to close the gap.
Read MorePlastiComp introduces carbon-glass hybrid LFT
The new hybrid composite pellet products combine long glass fiber and long carbon fiber together, bridging the performance gap between either fiber used alone.
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SAMPE Seattle 2014 Report
The Society’s reconfigured Spring advanced materials event in Seattle, Wash., attracts speakers, exhibitors and attendees in large numbers and international dimensions.
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