Pultrusion is a continuous process for the manufacture of composite structures. Parts feature a constant cross-section and are made by pulling continuous reinforced fibers through a resin bath, optionally followed by a separate preforming system and into a heated die, where the resin undergoes polymerization as the reinforcements are pulled through the die. Resin types typically include polyester, polyurethane, vinyl ester and epoxy. Pultrusion is particularly effective in the production of long, relatively narrow parts used as reinforcing members or ribs in a larger structure.
ATL and AFP-based preforming options now abound for processing dry and/or impregnated reinforcements as quickly as 1 minute or less with potential yearly part yields in the millions.
