AFP – Automated Fiber Placement

Purpose

At the Compraser Labs testbed in Linköping, RISE can help companies develop, test and implement automated manufacturing methods for high-end composites. Ranging from force-controlled robot forming of prepregs and automated fiber placement to induction welding of thermoplastic composites. We are experts within in the field of composite automation and focus on cost-efficient manufacturing of high performing fiber based composite components.

AFP is an automated method that places narrow carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites tows with heating and compaction force, usually on complex tooling geometries, often used within the aerospace sector.

Method

RISE can assist with the entire AFP process, starting with planning & tool design, followed by programming, simulation and manufacturing. RISE can also support with testing and evaluation (microscopy, NDI (Ultrasonic) C-scan etc.).

Our AFP equipment can place both thermoset prepregs and dry fibers, with a tow-width ranging from ¼” (6,35 mm) to 1” (25,4 mm), with ¼” increments. Fiber placement can be made on almost everything from flat laminates and coupon manufacturing to more advanced concave and convex panels with complex double curvature.

• Materials: Thermoset prepregs or dry fibers
• Tow width: Ranging from ¼” up to 1” (with ¼” increments)
• Speed: up to 1m/s 

Deliveries

Automated fiber placement according to the customer’s needs.

RISE can assist with qualifying products and carrying out test runs at the testbed, instead of interrupting the production at the customers facility.

RISE can assist with ordering slitted and/or sliced AFP material from our partners.