Tuesday, March 24, 1:30pm – 3:30pmLimited spots available This session will introduce the fundamentals of Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) for professionals entering the composites manufacturing field. It will begin with an overview of the rapid growth of composite materials and the increasing need for automated processes to meet the demands of next-generation composite structures. The session will then present the AFP process, including its operating principles, essential process parameters, and common machine configurations, establishing a foundation for understanding how modern AFP systems function. Key quality considerations will be discussed, highlighting typical defects encountered during fiber placement and the inspection methods used to ensure part integrity. Real-world examples will be used to illustrate AFP applications in aerospace and related industries, connecting process knowledge with practical outcomes. The session will conclude with an outlook on the future of AFP, emphasizing ongoing research efforts, emerging technologies, and potential advancements shaping the next decade of intelligent composites manufacturing.
