Composites Basics
Seven tips for machining composite aerospace components
Machining composite materials is a dusty, arduous and abrasive process that is hard on cutting tools, requiring the right combination of strategies and know-how to properly navigate their dynamics.
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The pursuit of energy efficiency in composites manufacturing
In an increasingly energy-driven world, technology developments are being sought after to reduce energy consumption in composites manufacturing, further translating into waste reduction and other efficiencies.
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Composites end markets: Sports and recreation (2025)
The use of composite materials in high-performance sporting goods continues to grow, with new advancements including thermoplastic and sustainability-focused materials and automated processes.
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Functionalizing surfaces for sustainability
Riblets reduce drag, fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and noise while boosting power output, flow rates, speed and efficiency.
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Crashworthiness testing of composites: A building block approach, Part 2
Following the previously discussed coupon-level testing element, subcomponent and component testing are the next steps in designing crashworthy composite structures.
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Trends fueling the composites recycling movement
Various recycling methods are being considered for composites, from novel dismantling and processing, to building capacity and demonstrating secondary use applications.
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Avoiding pitfalls in the design of LFAM composite components
Recoat temperature, part orientation and bead geometry are some key design variables to consider for a successful and reliable large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) process.
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Guidance for the thermoforming process
A briefing on some of the common foam core material types, forming methods and tooling requirements.
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Revisiting the double vacuum debulk process
Evolution of the double vacuum debulk (DVD) process over the years continues to advance its “near autoclave quality” for low-void, highly compacted repair patches.
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Fastener selection for composite materials
How to navigate terminology, materials and functionality in choosing the right fastener for components or assemblies involving composite materials.
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