The Consolidation of Rapid Laser Deconsolidated Composite Tapes

Laser-assisted fiber placement (LAFP) is an automated manufacturing technique with promising potential to produce larger aerospace structural components using thermoplastic composites. However, during the rapid heating phase, deconsolidation of composite tapes can occur, resulting in negative effects on bond forming ability. This study aimed to...

Crystallization of thermoplastic composites during the heating phase of Laser-Assisted Fiber Placement: An experimental investigation into the development of degree of crystallinity in CF/PPS tapes during the heating phase of LAFP

Laser-assisted fiber placement (LAFP) is a promising manufacturing process for thermoplastic composites (TPCs), which enables out-of-autoclave production and eliminates post-consolidation steps. In LAFP, thermoplastic carbon fiber tapes are heated with a laser heat source and placed into the desired layup with the help of a robot, while being...

Deconsolidation of thermoplastic prepreg tapes during the heating phase of LAFP: An experimental investigation into the effect of a resin-rich surface and tape pre-tension

Laser-assisted automated fiber placement (LAFP) is a promising additive manufacturing technique for the production of large aerospace components. Thermoplastic prepreg tapes will be placed ply-by-ply on top of a mould and in-situ consolidated. This is beneficial for higher production rates. The mechanical performance of thermoplastic composite...