Automotive
Composite flywheels: Finally picking up speed?
A wave of new composite flywheel developments for bus, rail, auto, heavy truck, construction equipment, and power grid support promises fuel savings, improved efficiency and reduced emissions — i.e. sustainability in the global quest for more energy.
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It's time for the U.S. to invest in advanced composites manufacturing
Consultant and president of Quickstep Composites (Dayton, Ohio) Dale Brosius suggests that it’s time for an Institute for Manufacturing Innovation (IMI), created under the proposed U.S. National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI).
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Walmart uses CFRP to boost efficiency
The new Walmart Advanced Vehicle Experience (WAVE) truck uses carbon fiber to cut 4,000 lb/1,814 kg and includes 53-ft/16.2m long, one-piece CFRP trailer panels.
WatchMeter/Mix/Dispense Machines: Balancing speed and control for auto CFRP
Suppliers of meter/mix/dispense (MMD) equipment are under pressure to keep pace with process innovations that are drastically reducing mold cycle times for carbon fiber/epoxy laminates in automotive applications.
Read MoreBuilding a stronger longitudinal leaf spring
Benteler-SGL (Ried, Austria) has identified a carbon fiber hybrid system for production of longitudinal springs.
Read MoreComposite leaf springs: Saving weight in production
Fast-reacting resins and speedier processes are making economical volume manufacturing possible.
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Legacy applications: Inspiration for future vehicles?
Dale Brosius, a consultant and president of Quickstep Composites (Dayton, Ohio), looks back at past automotive composites applications for today's market opportunities.
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At NAIAS, composites not difficult to find
With CAFE requirements steadily increasing each year, en route to 54.5 mpg by 2025, automakers of all stripes are working composites into new and concept cars.
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Out-of-autoclave manufacturing: The green solution
Regular HPC columnist Dale Brosius calls attention to the environmental benefits of out-of-autoclave processing.
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Carbon Fiber 2013 report, part 2: Automotive
Carbon fiber's future in automotive applications is not a sure thing, but the potential is real.
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