A Light Scattering Based Sensor for On-Line Monitoring of Fiber Diameter Distribution During Fiberglass Manufacturing

40348 November 12, 1996 Mission Research Corporation The fiberglass industry, which continues to satisfy the bulk of the world¿s insulation needs, lacks the advanced instrumentation necessary for performing on-line fiber diameter distribution measurements. Enhanced measurement capability would provide improved production efficiency and overall fiberglass product performance. This project addresses the design, laboratory testing, and preliminary field evaluation of a light scattering based sensor, optimized for on-line fiberglass diameter measurements. A theoretical model will be developed to specify the optical arrangement of the system and simulate instrument response for a wide range of candidate experimental configurations. Experimental laboratory studies, using both static and dynamic fibers, will evaluate factors not in the theoretical model, including fiber orientation, fiber location in the measurement volume, and signal processing requirements. A preliminary field evaluation of the optimized measurement system will be performed at a fiberglass production plant. Phase I results will provide the necessary data to determine if further Phase II prototype development and field evaluation is warranted. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: Successful development of the fiber measurement system should result in improvements in manufacturing efficiency and product performance and provide the fiberglass industry an on-line method for diameter distribution measurements. Commercial potential appears good as more than 50 fiberglass plants operate in the U.S., each consisting of several production lines using multiple fiberizing units. Spin-offs to other fiber based industries, such as optical fibers and textiles, is also possible.