Stitched, needle-punched fabrics benefit open and closed molding

Vectorply Corp. (Phenix City, Ala., U.S.) enables visitors to learn how to use its combination of highly engineered reinforcements and technical support to meet composites production goals. Applying an engineering-driven product development approach, Vectorply has designed hundreds of stitched and needle-punched fabrics for open and closed mold processes of composite part production. Some of the product lines on display include:

• VectorUltra advanced reinforcements are high-performance noncrimp fabrics (NCF) made with advanced fibers such as carbon fiber, aramid and others.
• NeedlePly needle-punched reinforcements are products with no stitching, to be used for closed mold applications. Options include all-glass versions for corrosion resistance, high-loft CFM replacements, conformable heavy weight options for industrial applications and combination products with structural reinforcements layered in.
• VectorFusion infusion-specific reinforcements are designed to optimize vacuum infusion process (VIP) performance. The range of custom products use cores, substrates and veils, and can provide the ideal amount of resin necessary for the infusion process.
• VectorFusion consumables are pre-consolidated feed, branch and vacuum lines designed to optimize the infusion process by moving resin quickly to the correct areas, while also reducing the amount of resin that makes it to catch pots.
• Customized reinforcement fabrics are designed for specific applications. On display at the booth are high-temperature carbon tooling fabrics, print-blocking multilayer fabrics, light weight carbon multiaxial products for performance applications and many more.

In addition, Vectorply engineers are available on-site to explain its range of complimentary technical services and support offered to customers, whether attendees are just beginning in composites production, endeavoring to adapt a new process or optimizing products through enhanced laminate design. Visitors also have the opportunity to learn about Vectorply’s laminate analysis software, VectorLam, lab testing capabilities and on-site production support.