Optimisation of layer and fibre adhesion in dry fibre placement processes for snowboard preform

Dry fiber placement has great potential to save material and improve the mechanical properties of carbon preforms due to lower undulation compared to woven fabrics. The aim of this work is to optimize the layer and fiber adhesion in dry-fiber-placement processes, in particular on a new dry fiber placement machine (NNS). The layer and fiber adhesion is important for the further processing and transport of the preforms. For this purpose, five different powder binders with different proportions and a veil are tested. The powder is applied to the carbon roving with the aid of a spreader. The amount of binder applied is being varied by the speed of the spreader. Although a larger amount of binder improves handling, it also reduces the mechanical properties of the final composite. It is therefore important to find the optimum proportion for each binder. The preforms are evaluated with regard to their handling and stability during laminating process. In addition, tensile and loosening tests are carried out with test specimens. Based on these results and the evaluation of the handling, a comprehensive assessment can be made of each binder and the required binder quantities.