CompositesWorld
Issue link: https://cw.epubxp.com/i/632301
FEBRUARY 2016 50 CompositesWorld PLANT TOUR Architecture, automation and tooling Te whole range of available fbers, of course, can be used in the IRIS process and Spirit uses many of them, where appro- priate. However, particularly in large structures used in the most demanding of applications, including wings, Spirit makes wide use of intermediate-modulus carbon fbers. Non-crimp fabrics (NCFs) form the basis of many prototypes. In addition to NCFs, Spirit uses diferent fabric forms to suit the need in combination with NCF. For example, Spirit has developed, in conjunction with a supplier, 3D woven cleat preforms, which form attachment points for a rib to a wing cover, to incorporate into layups. Spirit also uses braided forms and incorporates stitching into its large preforms. To date, NCF layups have mostly been carried out by hand. But Watson acknowledges, "We have to fnd a way to automate the whole process," Unlike the tows and tapes used with automatic fber placement (AFP) and automatic tape laying (ATL), NCF layers cannot be laid side by side. "You can't have multiple joints in NCF. You have to deposit the whole tape width." Watson likens it to "rolling out a carpet." Toward that end, Spirit has investigated a number of automated options from a variety of suppliers. Hand-in-hand with IRIS is Spirit's new patented and trade- marked tooling approach, which it calls Infexion. Co-invented with Spintech LLC (Xenia, OH, US), Infexion features tool elements made from shape memory polymer (SMP, see "Learn More"). Watson explains that the SMP softens slightly during the cure cycle and works somewhat like a vacuum bag, helping with the consolidation of the part laminate. With conventional tooling, it is often very difcult to remove the internal tooling or mandrel FIG. 4 Oven-cured OOA prepregs prove worth A representative photomicrograph of a honeycomb ramp fange interface demonstrates that the quality of the interface achieved via Spirit's methodology can be at least as good, if not better than, that achieved in a conventional autoclave process. COMPOSITE MANUFAC TURING "Solution for components beyond standard" contact: Wickert USA 2195 Arbor Tech Drive Hebron, KY 41048 859 525 6610 x157 sales@wickert-usa.com www.wickert-usa.com Your (Materials/Parameters) + Component Engineering = Turnkey Modular System Visit us at JEC world in Paris March 8 - 10, 2016 Hall # 5 a – Booth # M 59