Low Cost Tow Preg for AFP

A potentially low cost method of producing prepreg tow is proposed. The method for fabricating impregnated tow suitable for Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) technology, while defined, does not include a low cost methodology for producing high quality, dimensional accurate continuous product. This product should be environmentally friendly and lend itself to a wide variety of commercial composite applications. YLA proposes the use of a multi-station die impregnation system utilizing hot melt resin technology and an impregnated fiber shaping process with a cooling drum to set the tow dimensions. Development of this proposed prepreg tow method will be designed to handle the rheology of toughened epoxy systems which will provide the properties necessary to meet the mechanical and environmental requirements of the structure.