DYNA JOURNAL ENGINEERING

Key words:

Process automation, fiberglass prepregs, ultraviolet (UV) curing, composite materials, process monitoring, sensors in composite manufacturing, adaptive control, quality optimization, resin content in prepregs, real-time monitoring, data acquisition systems, machine learning in manufacturing, process control, fiber–resin interaction, smart manufacturing, Industry 4.0, UV-curable resins, thermoset composites, process efficiency, predictive maintenance.

Article type:

ARTICULO DE INVESTIGACION / RESEARCH ARTICLE

Section:

RESEARCH ARTICLES

This work presents recent advances in the optimization of an automated process for manufacturing glass fiber composites, based on the production of UV-cured prepregs. The aim of this development is to facilitate the production of glass fiber parts with a polyester matrix, ensuring a repeatable and controllable process. Moreover, this innovative technology enhances process efficiency and improves the quality of the final product. This work focuses on monitoring the manufacturing process using specific sensors, such as laser measurement devices and thermocouples, with the aim of ontrolling key process
parameters, including the impregnation temperature and
the thickness of the resin layer deposited on the dry fabric.
Continuous monitoring, enabled by the integration of a data
acquisition and analysis platform, makes it possible to improve
both the quality and efficiency of the process. It also facilitates
the development of models for implementing adaptive controls,
issuing reprocessing instructions, and validating product quality
in real time.
Within this framework, temperature at various stages of
the process and the resin content in the prepreg have been
monitored and analyzed, establishing their correlation with
machine parameters that govern the impregnation process.
Resin content was measured using a newly patented device (EP
23382517.3), and the results were compared with fiber content
measurements obtained through weight difference analysis.
In this project, the UV-curing prepreg manufacturing process
was successfully monitored, enabling real-time visualization
and analysis of key process parameters. This revealed a clear
correlation between these parameters and the resin content,
laying the foundation for future full machine automation.
This technology can be applied to UV-curable resins, including
acrylic thermoplastics, bio-based, flame-retardant, or dual-cureon.
UV and thermal resins, as well as to all types of glass fibers,
thereby broadening its applicability across various composite
manufacturing processes.
• Keywords: Process automation, fiberglass prepregs, ultraviolet
(UV) curing, composite materials, process monitoring, sensors
in composite manufacturing, adaptive control, quality
optimization, resin content in prepregs.