PRODUCING NEAR-NET SHAPE PREFORMS FROM UNIDIRECTIONAL TAPES

摘要

A method for producing near-net shaped (within 3 mm of the dimensions of the finished part) preforms from unidirectional (UD) prepreg tape, which can be compression moulded to produce structures with complicated geometries has been developed by Hexcel of Dublin, California, USA. UD tape is generally not well-suited for use as a moulding compound for forming complicated three-dimensional (3D) structures using compression moulding techniques. The parallel orientation and continuous nature of the fibres in the tape can cause the bunching or bridging of the fibres when the UD tape is forced to fit the geometries of the component.