Wind/Energy
Rapid layup: New 3-D preform technology
Hook-and-loop fasteners speed layup of carbon, aramid, glass and hybrid fabrics while improving composites’ mechanical performance.
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Novel offshore wind energy system relies on carbon fiber sails
The 50-kW Nova project features a composites-intensive offshore, double-arm, vertical axes wind turbine system (VAWTS) that will investigate the affordability and feasibility of manufacturing this innovative energy system.
Read MoreThe PTC: Symptom of policy uncertainty
The U.S. federal Production Tax Credit (PTC) is set to expire on Dec. 31, 2012, because Congress claims it cannot afford the yearly cost (estimated at $3.5 billion). Here's why Congress is wrong and who's really behind opposition to the PTC.
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WINDPOWER 2012 report
Continued technology-driven performance gains are overshadowed by PTC gloom and predicted Asian overcapacity.
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The evolution of infusion
As resin infusion continues to infiltrate composites, fabricators across the market spectrum drive materials and process developments in pursuit of process control.
Read MoreThe first commercial Type V composite pressure vessel
Composites Technology Development's first commercial tank in the Type V category presages growth of filament winding in storage of compressed gases.
Read MorePressure vessel tank types
Pressure vessels have been classified in four categories, based on their construction. Each type has assets and liabilities.
Read MoreCompetition for carbon fiber in longer blades
Although the use of carbon fiber is increasign in wind turbine blades, high-strength S-glass and basalt fibers, new resins and improved blade designs are also providing blade designers the means to limit blade weight gain as they increase blade swept area.
Read MoreWind turbine blades: Glass vs. carbon fiber
As the wind energy market continues to grow, competition heats up between glass and carbon fiber composites for turbine blades.
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Growth opportunities: Materials innovation will drive composites usage to new heights
Dr. Sanjay Mazumdar of Lucintel (Dallas, Texas) predicts double-digit growth for the composites market in the next five years.
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