Electroimpact offers variable spot size laser AFP 4.0 technology
Patented process technology increases quality, reliability and machine utilization for composite laminate production.
Source | Electroimpact, via LinkedIn
The variable spot size laser (VSSL) by Electroimpact’s (Multikeo, Wash., U.S.) automated fiber placement (AFP) group reportedly offers a new level of performance in automated composites manufacturing.
The VSSL is noted for its quality of lamination. The system delivers the right amount of heat for each individual tow, resulting in consistent tow tack even when adding at 4,000"/min. Tow end placement is highly accurate and consistent due to improved tension and tow tack.
Optimized tack means no missed tows, Electroimpact emphasizes, especially short tows, and thus a more reliable process. The servo-creel is a high-performance tension system that assures no slack and therefore no tow twists are possible. Because only the active tows are being heated and because the heat arrives at the moment the new tow meets the nip, there is no chance for a compaction roller wrap.
The VSSL laser and servo-creel enable 4,000"/min adds and 3,000"/min cuts, enhancing performance capabilities. Moreover, utilization has been increased, as the system is said to eliminate any rework or process error recovery.
For more information, see Electroimpact’s LinkedIn post.
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