AMable - FABTHEP

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AMable - FABTHEP Experiment

The project aim is to create a process that uses Additive Manufacturing to apply very thin layers of thermoplastic material on technical fabrics and more specifically on carbon fabrics. This process will be using a high temperature, high strength thermoplastic to 3D print patterns onto the fabric surface at the micron level. The ultimate goal is the creation of a fine interlayer reinforcement which will dramatically increase the fracture toughness of the final composite. Through this innovative 3D printing process, the resulted technical fabrics will offer an increased strength and mechanical performance to multilayer composite structures; the extra micro-reinforcement can contribute to a more effective load transfer within the material, offering increased toughness and high strength and as a result reduced weight to the end product. 3D Printing Technology will support increased volume production of enhanced technical fabrics.

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Component Optimization & Development

Project News

2019

Oct: Project launch.

2020

Jan: Upgraded machine design and build up.

Apr: Design patterns/printing trials and optimisation/initial testing.

Apr: Experiments Conference Presentation (online).

May: Composite panels fabrication.

Jun: Mechanical testing.

Jul: Composite parts fabrication for user.

Aug: Mechanical testing fabrication.

Sep: Project submitted and closed.

FABTHEP was followed by a continuation project, whose aim was to create a process that uses Additive Manufacturing to apply very thin layers of nano reinforced thermoplastic material on technical fabrics and more specifically on carbon fabrics. This process uses a high temperature, high strength thermoplastic to 3D print patterns onto the fabric surface at the micron level. The ultimate goal is the continuation of FABTHEP 1 by reinforcing the 3D Printed PEEK Interlayer with Carbon Nanotubes. In addition, the goal is to increase the production capacity of the nano-reinforced 3D printed carbon fabric layers for CFRP composites. Through this innovative 3D printing process, the resulted technical fabrics offer an increased strength and mechanical performance to multilayer composite structures; the extra nano-reinforcement can contribute to a more effective load transfer within the material, offering increased toughness and high strength and as a result reduced weight to the end product. 3D Printing Technology supports increased volume production of enhanced technical fabrics.