In-line plasma source for introducing pieces of spread carbon fiber tow into molding compositions on a compounding production line
US10131098B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 3, 2014 |
| Grant date | Nov 20, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 20, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB32B2262/106
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An automated process is provided for debundling carbon fiber tow that includes feeding a carbon fiber tow into a chopper. The carbon fiber tow is cut to form lengths of chopped tow portions. The lengths of chopped tow portions are distributed on a moving conveyor. The lengths of chopped tow portions are exposed to a first plasma discharge from a first plasma source on the moving conveyor to create debundled carbon fibers. Alternatively, the carbon fiber tow is exposed to the first plasma discharge prior to being cut into lengths. A system for applying chopped fibers to a sheet of molding compound includes a chopper for cutting a carbon fiber tow into lengths of chopped tow portions. A conveyor belt receives the lengths of chopped tow portions. At least one plasma generating source is arrayed across of the conveyor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.