Lynx

Purpose and goal

The goal of the project was to develop a spreading process for manufacturing carbon fiber tapes with higher quality and better properties than what is possible with today´s process. The goal was to produce thinner, smoother and more homogeneous tapes. During the project, test series were carried out and a comprehensive database was built up. Analysis of the data has given a better understanding of the parameters affecting the tape´s characteristics. New measurement methods were developed. The project has increased the knowledge of the spreading process and how it can be optimized.

Expected results and effects

During the project, critical parameters for optimizing the spreading process were identified. A system for continuous measurement of tape width and thickness was deployed. We will go ahead with a bridging project to develop an industrial scale process and commercialize new products: -Develop a system for normalization of carbon fiber yarns. -Further develop measurement systems. series of measurements to examine differences between different fiber qualities. -Refined series of measurements to optimize equipment. -Measurements to study tapes with more than one yarn.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was executed in four work packages (WP) during the period June 15 to October 28 with personnel from Oxeon. WP1 and WP2 covered the development and verification of pilot and test equipment. New logging equipment and a vision camera for measurement of the tape´s profile was installed. In WP3, a test plan was established and implemented with the aim to optimize the current spreading technology and to measure the width and thickness of the tapes. WP4 included the analysis of test results from AP3. Because of the number of tests carried out, a comprehensive database has been evaluated.