NIAR Automated Technologies Laboratory for Aerospace Systems (ATLAS) partnered with Axiom Materials for investigating the automated fiber placement (AFP) of AX-7810-610, a solvent-based Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) prepreg that can be used for high-temperature applications up to 1,650 °F such as engine components. Several material variants were slit using NIAR slitter capable of continuous in-process inspections to investigate the slit-tape quality in order to ensure that the material will process through the AFP system without producing manufacturing defects.

“We made some modifications to the AFP system in order to process CMC materials so that overall the tape would lay down for automated layup and part production,” said Josh Goertz, a senior research engineer at ATLAS who has over 10 years of experience with AFP systems.

Wylie Simpson, Lead CMC Engineer, and Supervisor at Axiom Materials stated, “Oxide-Oxide ceramic matrix composites are a proven material for low density, high-temperature components that demand high thermo-structural performance. Yet, widespread usage has been limited due to cost and process scalability. Our collaboration with NIAR has allowed us to break through these barriers. These automated processes significantly improve layup rates and consistency when compared to traditional hand layup. They also lower material scrap rates and increase the size and scale of components that may be produced.”

Axiom Materials, Inc. is the largest global producer of Ceramic matrix Oxide/Oxide Prepregs on an industrial scale. Axiom is a leading provider of composite prepreg materials, film adhesives, and tooling. To order this product, please contact Axiom Materials using the website contact page or call Customer Service at 949-623-4400.

https://www.axiommaterials.com/