Smoky -
I like what RMI has been doing for a lonnngggggg time. They argue in favor of solutions that are win-win for business and the environment.
They used to have a "hypercar" concept :
http://www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid191.php
... But that changed into a company that is trying to develop the technology for affordable super-light (carbon fiber) construction :
Fiberforge
http://www.fiberforge.com/
Fiberforge Brochure
http://www.fiberforge.com/DOWNLOADS/...geBrochure.pdf
Quote:
Fiberforge’s patented Relay™ Station changes everything.
The Relay Station is a fully-automated, high-speed layup system that
rapidly produces Tailored Blanks. A Tailored Blank is a near net-shape, twodimensional,
high-fiber-fraction preformed flat made from multiple layers of
continuous fibers and thermoplastic resin. Following layup, the Tailored Blanks
are shuttled off for consolidation, forming and trimming. By separating the
manufacturing process into four rapid, discrete steps, our process enables
the production of advanced composite structures in under one minute per
part. The Relay Station also allows for a high degree of customization. Fibers
are oriented within the part so that loads are carried along the fiber direction,
improving performance and minimizing cost. Since the process only places
material where it is needed, scrap and cost are reduced significantly. All in all,
the Fiberforge solution embodies all of the best characteristics of advanced
composites while overcoming traditional processing limitations.
...
Fiberforge’s Advanced Thermoplastic Composites are:
200% tougher than thermoset composites
500% stiffer than injection molded plastics
60% lighter than steel
600% stiffer than steel
25% lighter than aluminum
60% less scrap during production than sheet goods
Sustainable – can be recycled for use in other processes
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RMI, good stuff.
http://www.rmi.org/
CarloSW2