Automated Fiber Placement of Dry Slit Tape for Resin Infusion

Commercial aerospace manufacturers are increasingly turning to resin infusion processing to manufacture large, complex composite structures. To meet production rates required by market demand, these manufactures require automated process methods such as automated fiber placement (AFP) to create the preforms required. Existing dry composite materials are not optimized for automated placement, however, leading to quality and processing issues that decrease productivity and increase cost.

This presentation covers a new dry tape product by Cytec Aerospace Materials that has been optimized for AFP. The material includes a novel binder technology that enhances steering capability and a proprietary veil that improves permeability. Challenges to developing the material and methods used for optimization are discussed. Results of laydown and permeability assessment testing are included showing prepreg-like machine efficiency from dry tape laydown and improved mechanical performance over existing non-crimped fabrics.