Electrostatic Fiber Spreader.

Abstract

A fiber spreader is provided which reduces fiber damage that occurs during spreading. The fiber spreader includes a thin electrically grounded support sheet for supporting a layer of fibers on one surface thereof. The fibers supported on the support sheet are guided by a plurality of guide rollers past at least one corona discharge region at which the fibers are spread substantially uniformly. A motor driven spool advances the support sheet past the corona discharge region. The fibers are attached to the support sheet by an electrostatic attraction. The guide rollers are positioned so as to provide at least one region in which the sheet and the fibers are physically separated to allow for the uniform spreading of the fibers. After the fibers are spread the fibers and the support sheet are united again and collected on a motor-driven spool.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 05, 1992
Accession Number
ADD015677

Entities

People

  • Alan Edelstein
  • Jonathan M. Peritt
  • Richard K Everett

Organizations

  • United States Department of the Navy

Tags

Readers

  • Geodesy
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics
  • Reinforced Composite Materials