Composites Basics
Composites end markets: Electronics (2024)
Increasingly, prototype and production-ready smart devices featuring thermoplastic composite cases and other components provide lightweight, optimized sustainable alternatives to metal.
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Celebrating 30 years of CompositesWorld, Part 1
CW explores key composite developments that have shaped how we see and think about the industry today.
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The basics of composite drawing interpretation
Knowing the fundamentals for reading drawings — including master ply tables, ply definition diagrams and more — lays a foundation for proper composite design evaluation.
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PEEK vs. PEKK vs. PAEK and continuous compression molding
Suppliers of thermoplastics and carbon fiber chime in regarding PEEK vs. PEKK, and now PAEK, as well as in-situ consolidation — the supply chain for thermoplastic tape composites continues to evolve.
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Pultrusion: The basics
A primer describing what pultrusion is, its advantages and disadvantages, and typical applications.
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Proper application of semi-permanent mold release systems
Performing regular maintenance of the layup tool for successful sealing and release is required to reduce the risk of part adherence.
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Composites end markets: Aerospace (2023)
With COVID in the past and passengers flying again, commercial aircraft production is ramping up. The aerocomposites supply chain is busy developing new M&P for an approaching next-generation aircraft program.
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Composites end markets: Automotive (2023)
Electrification and a focus on sustainability lead to opportunities and innovations in composites, from battery enclosures to structural components and more.
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The state of recycled carbon fiber
As the need for carbon fiber rises, can recycling fill the gap?
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Materials & Processes: Tooling for composites
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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