Tailored Fiber Placement
Tailored Fiber Placement (TFP) is an embroidery-based tow-steering process that enables complete control over fiber placement and directionality in a composite preform. During the process, continuous tow is stitched to a backing material using numerical control. The result is highly engineered composite structures that take full advantage of the anisotropic nature of fiber reinforcement.
Advantages of TFP include:
- Construction of highly efficient, complex preforms
- Automated preforming process
- No waste
- Z-stitching for out-of-plane performance
Modeling and Design
To take full advantage of this technology, UDRI has developed custom topology optimization software specifically for TFP that allow its engineers to design highly optimized structures. These models are then fed into conventional FEA programs to analyze performance.
We also offer a suite of in-house tools for design of composite structures and devices. Learn more about Composite Optimization.
Preform Fabrication and Composite Production
UDRI’s composite engineers use TFP to create full preforms as well as to locally reinforce conventional fabric.
UDRI make use of its tool design/manufacturing capabilities and composite processing expertise to infuse and cure.
Characterization
UDRI has characterized countless combinations of materials and stitch parameters to give designers confidence in the performance of their final component. This performance can be validated at UDRI test facilities via mechanical testing and/or nondestructive evaluation.
Examples:
UDRI's TFP Tailored Fiber Placement work is supported by over 700 employees and a wide range of composite material expertise. Learn more here:
For more information:
Scott Huelskamp
Senior Composites Engineer
Phone: 937-229-3045
Email: Scott.Huelskamp@udri.udayton.edu