Things to Consider before Designing for ATL/AFP Manufacturing?

As the ATL/AFP processes use a roller in all cases while laying the fiber-impregnated strips, this causes some inherent limitations in the part shape that can be produced.

Figure 1. The Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) System by the Addcomposites team

The limitation mainly comes from:

• Mold

• Minimum Fiber Width

• Roller Radius

• Tool Interference

Mold

The mold determines the final shape and surface finish of a composite part

The shape of the part required decides the shape of the mold. The mold is often the biggest roadblock in the initial stages of production.