|
|
|
|
Literature
| Tools
& Calculators | Video
Library |
Test Results
| Applications | News
|FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions)
|
|
|
|
Project Wins First Hardwire IPOD Contest Full Scale HSR Beam Infused Utilizing Hardwire© The first full scale High Speed Rail beam, measuring just over 30 feet in length, was completed at the University of Delaware composites lab. The "Plasticon-Optimized Composite Beam System," United States Patent Number 6,145,270, is a revolutionary new type of structural member developed for use in bridge structures. (see previous article of HSR Beam). What is unique in this latest development is that in the areas where Hardwire© was used no other resin distribution media was utilized. This area represented approiximately 50% of the beam, and the effects were startling. This project was submitted for its unique applications of Hardwire® as was rewarded with Hardwire LLC's first IPOD contest winner. Mr. John Hillman of Teng & Associates selected the brushed aluminum IPOD and it was engraved with his name and of course the Hardwire slogan, "Stiffness Counts", and presented to him on December 2, 2004. John Hillman, lead engineer from Teng & Associates comments: "Prior to infusion of the first beam, we were anticipating an infusion time of 2-3 hours for the 25 gallons of vinyl ester required for the beam. We were pleasantly shocked when the beam infused in just over one hour with the major constraint resulting from our inability to mix the small batches of resin fast enough (easily solvable). In retrospect, the beam could have easily infused in less than twenty minutes." Because of this Hillman is rethinking the laminate schedule and will be incorporating more Hardwire© on the top and sides so that no other distribution media will be required. This will allow him to layup faster, provide more strength, decrease waste, and provide a completely license free infusion process. "We were expecting to encounter most of our difficulties in lay-up from Hardwire, not the glass fabrics. By the time we were done, we found the opposite to be true. Hardwire can be reached at (410) 957-3669 / www.hardwirellc.com John Hillman of Teng & Associates may be reached at hillmanjr@teng.com. Hardwire® products may be purchased directly via this website or though distribution at Composites One.
|
