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Journal of Composite Materials, 2013 0021998313490770.
MS Irfan1, VR Machavaram1, RC Murray1, FN Bogonez1, CF Wait1, SD Pandita1, MA Paget1, M Hudson2, GF Fernando 1
- Sensors and Composites Group, School of Metallurgy and Materials, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK and
- PPG Industries UK Ltd, Wigan, Greater Manchester, UK.
Abstract
Fibre-reinforced composites consist of three key components: the reinforcing fibres, the matrix and the interface between the fibre and the matrix. The efficient impregnation of the reinforcing fibre bundle by the matrix is a primary prerequisite for the production of advanced fibre-reinforced composites. This process can be significantly enhanced by spreading the filaments in the reinforcing fibre bundle. The authors previously reported on a manual technique for spreading the filaments in a bundle. This involved subjecting a fibre bundle to a series of reciprocating motions over a rod. The effect of releasing the tension on the bundle was also considered. On the basis of the observations made in the previous study, a mechanised rig was designed, manufactured and optimised to enable the lateral spreading of the filaments in a bundle of E-glass fibres. A Taguchi-based approach was used to optimise the variables on the rig such as the number and configuration of rollers, haul-off speed of the fibre bundle, pre-tension in the bundle and the rotational speed of the roller carrier hub. The maximum degree of fibre spreading achieved for a commercially available 2400 tex E-glass fibre bundle was 250%.
