Abstract: Apparatus and a method of preparing fiber preforms disperses fibers and binder on a forming support surface such that the materials are conditioned and then applied to the surface where the composite material solidifies. Reinforcing material, such as fiber, is mixed with binder, such as thermoplastic or thermoset materials, so that the materials adhere. Then, the adhesive mixture is dispersed in a controlled predetermined weight ratio on the support surface where the mixture sticks to the support surface, cools and solidifies. The deposited mixture can be an open mat having interstices between fibers. The deposited mixture can also be shaped further into a final desired shape before complete solidification. This method eliminates the need for solvents and their associated problems. The process does not require a vacuum or plenum system to hold the reinforcing material in place.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method of preparing fiber preforms disperses fibers and binder on a forming support surface such that the materials are conditioned and then applied to the surface where the composite material solidifies. Reinforcing material, such as fiber, is mixed with binder, such as thermoplastic or thermoset materials, so that the materials adhere. Then, the adhesive mixture is dispersed in a controlled pre-determined weight ratio on the support surface where the mixture sticks to the support surface, cools and solidifies. The deposited mixture can be an open mat having interstices between fibers. The deposited mixture can also be shaped further into a final desired shape before complete solidification. This method eliminates the need for solvents and their associated problems. The process does not require a vacuum or plenum system to hold the reinforcing material in place.

Abstract: A pneumatically controlled valve system is provided featuring simplified modular construction, reduction of moving parts, improved control of valve operation and increased resistance to corrosive effects of transfer fluid used with the valve. In this invention a 3-way valve system is described which has a valve body constructed of modules of polyvinylidene fluoride polymer (PVDF) removably and operably attached to each other in such a way as to removably contain and retain double diaphragm sliding valve stem assembly of known design which removably seals a fluorocarbon polymer (PTFE) stem to the PVDF seat integral to the valve body to close and open the valve fluid inlet ports and sealingly separates the pneumatic pressurizing gas from the transfer fluid.