MODELLING AND FABRICATION OF CREEL STAND FOR FILAMENT WINDING MACHINE

ABSTRACT: This Paper focuses on the modeling and fabrication of a creel stand for use in a filament winding machine, a key process in manufacturing composite materials reinforced with carbon or glass fibers. These materials are critical in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and superior durability. The creel stand serves as an essential component, functioning as a spool management system that organizes and holds multiple spools. It ensures controlled fiber release and precise tensioning during the winding process, which is vital for achieving structural integrity and uniform material properties in the final composite products. The Paper's objective was to develop a robust and modular creel stand using advanced CAD software, such as SolidWorks, to enhance design precision and visualization. Key features include adjustable spool holders for flexibility in accommodating spools of varying sizes, tension control mechanisms to maintain uniform tension across all fibers, and guiding systems to ensure smooth and uninterrupted fiber flow. These elements are critical for preventing misalignments and tangles, which can compromise the quality of the final product. Additionally, the design incorporates features such as collapsible or detachable components for easy storage and transportation. The stand is designed to be compatible with automated processes, integrating seamlessly with CNC systems for enhanced production efficiency. Emphasis on sustainability and cost-efficiency was also a focus, ensuring minimal material wastage during manufacturing. This Paper contributes to advancing filament winding technologies by improving operational efficiency, reducing production costs, and enabling the manufacturing of high-quality composites that meet diverse industrial needs.