CW Blog
CW Forum launches
About once a month, I get into a low-grade argument with an elderly acquaintance, who likes to tell me what a complete flop the Internet is.
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Equibiaxial flexural strength testing of fiber-reinforced ceramics
In my last column, I discussed uniaxial flexural strength testing of fiber-reinforced ceramics, that is, simple three- or four-point bending of a strip of material of rectangular cross section (see "Learn More," at left). As was noted, the strength of this test specimen is sensitive to machining defects at its edges. Also, in many applications of fiber-reinforced ceramics (and unreinforced ceramics), the stress state is not uniaxial, but rather biaxial.
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2008 Farnborough Airshow Report
This biennial aerospace showcase underscores the ascendancy of composites in airframes and jet engines.
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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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Aviation Outlook: Composites in commercial aircraft jet engines
Airlines' need for fuel-efficient flight provides the thrust behind composite lightweighting strategies in jet engine manufacturing.
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Polyurethane long fiber technology (LFT) replaces wood in spa surround
To many consumers, the thought of a relaxing soak in a hot tub is mighty appealing — but the thought of spa maintenance, particularly replacing rotted wood in the spa's cabinet-like enclosure, probably isn't. For spa manufacturer Clearwater Spas (Woodinville, Wash.), that reality and the fact that building decorativ
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Rapid Manufacturing, Part II: Pioneer Applications
Harbingers of what could be a significant trend, these composites manufacturers demonstrate the potential of additive fabrication and several innovative materials in tool-free manufacture of complex components.
Read MoreSPE'S AUTOMOTIVE COMPOSITES SHOW PREVIEW
Conference continues growth trend despite tough North American market.
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Composites Pick Up New Applications in Light Trucks
Long a bastion of steel, the tougher-duty pickup segment of the light truck market is warming to the benefits of composites.
Read MoreRapid Manufacturing, Part I: The Technologies
An outgrowth of rapid prototyping, tool-free additive fabrication is shortening product development cycles for manufacturers of smaller, limited-run composite parts.
Read MoreTaking Subjectivity out of Class A Surface Evaluation
Toward the goal of more consistent, repeatable and quantifiable Class A surface analysis, automakers and systems suppliers are developing and employing automated surface inspection tools.
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