Features:

• Lays down 3” wide flat prepreg tape
• Can incorporate E-Beam, ultrasonic or flame for curing
• Integrated cutting of CFRP without cutting the backing paper
• Process historization
• PLC/HMI controls
• Versatile and adjustable process parameters

Situation:

Polymer, fiber, and part manufacturers test consolidation techniques, materials and various other processes on a constant basis.

Problem:

Client cannot build an R & D machine using internal resources and an industry search does not yield an off-the-shelf solution.

Implication:

Necessary research work that must precede commercialization cannot proceed on schedule causing cost overruns.

Solution:

Accudyne Systems has built several machines expressly for this purpose. They include machines that are used in thermoplastic insitu consolidating and E-Beam insitu consolidation. Both machines include extensive controls and R & D functions that allow the operator to adjust a multitude of process variables.

The R & D Flat Tape Laying Machine incorporates three degrees of freedom and is capable of laying 3” wide thermoset prepreg tapes in any orientation to construct flat laminates up to 1m by 1m. The backing paper acts as a transfer layer for the prepreg and is collected on a roll. Tape cuts are made using a stylus that does not penetrate the prepreg backing paper.

The E-Beam R&D machine is outfitted with a 200 keV E-Beam gun for composite curing experiments. All safety systems for guarding against radiation exposure were provided with this machine. In addition, 20MHz and 40MHz ultrasonic compactors were used for laminate consolidation.