Aerospace
Matrices: Carbon, metal and ceramic
Perhaps the most exotic matrix, in part because it is neither thermoset nor thermoplastic, is pyrolized and densified noncontinuous carbon, which forms the matrix in carbon/carbon (C/C) composites. C/Cs withstand extremely high temperatures – nearly 1650°C/3000°F on space shuttle components – and also find use in
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The ABCs of FEA
Computerized and adapted for composites, finite element analysis reduces R&D expense and shortens time to market.
Read MoreOctober 2006 Editorial
The first joint AVK Conference/COMPOSITES EUROPE trade fair was held Sept. 20-22 in Essen, Germany. Official numbers are in: show organizers say the event drew 200 exhibitors and 3,700 people were in attendance during the three-day event. Sixty percent of the exhibitors and 58 percent of the visitors came from outside
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September 2006 Editorial
These are exciting times, both for the industry we serve and for High-Performance Composites. I just read that Alan Mulally, the exec who led Boeing Commercial Airplanes through the tough post-9/11 slump, has replaced Bill Ford Jr. as president/CEO of Ford Motor Co. Although building airplanes and mass-producing cars
Read MoreFarnborough Airshow Report 2006
The biggest and busiest in recent memory, this year's event puts an unprecedented spotlight on composites.
Read MoreCarbon fiber composite recycling: An industry perspective
While carbon fibers and the composites made from them have been around for a good many decades, they continue to gain public attention through the marketing efforts of aircraft companies, such as Airbus and Boeing, as well as Formula 1 racing teams and OEMs of high-end consumer goods. Today, most carbon fiber still
Read MoreEngineered to innovate
Core materials — and the ways they are used — evolve to meet new challenges.
Read MoreLight, strong composite ductwork keys aircraft comfort
While passengers never see them, ventilation ducts are an important part of any airliner. Their fabrication and performance specifications are more complicated than one might suspect. Complex shapes are required to fit within the curved fuselage, yet they must withstand high temperatures and some pressure cycling
Read MoreMonitoring the cure itself
The latest technologies measure the matrix resin's actual cure state, saving time and money.
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