Electroimpact Uses Victrex AE 250 LMPAEK Uni-Directional Tape to Achieve Layup Speeds of Thermosets

January 18 (2021

The next decisive step in the production of large structural components from thermoplastic composites for use in Aerospace has been achieved. Using their enhanced Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) processing technology, Electroimpact, a highly experienced provider of factory automation and tooling solutions, was able to increase laydown speeds of thermoplastic unidirectional tape (TP UDT) to 4000 inches per minute (IPM). The high-speed rates were possible by working together with Victrex, an innovative world leader in high-performance polymer solutions – and by relying on the unique properties of the company´s VICTREX AE 250 LMPAEK UDT.

“The significance of processing thermoplastic UDT at 4000 IPM layup speeds with the Variable Spot Size (VSS) Laser is, for the first time that we know of, that thermoplastics are able to achieve thermoset lay-up speeds. These developments can help eliminate the need for autoclave cure, offer major and new, throughput advantages for thermoplastics.” explains Michael Assadi, Chief Engineer at Electroimpact.”

Electroimpact have enhanced existing AFP processing technology through the deployment of a new laser heating system with the potential to revolutionize thermal processing for the aerospace industry. Assadi adds: “We are really excited at Electroimpact to offer this new laser technology and using the high-performing LMPAEK composite material from Victrex on a broader scale to meet unmet customer needs.”

VICTREX AE 250 UDT is a novel, high-performance thermoplastic composite prepreg tape that was designed by Victrex to have mechanical, physical and chemical resistance properties typical of the Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) polymer family, such as PEEK, but with a 40 °C lower crystalline melting temperature, at only 305°C.

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