Airbond, a British company engaged in fiber splicing business, won the Queen's Innovation Award for its splicing technology. This is the second time the company has won this award since 2013.
In the past, despite the high longitudinal strength of the fibers, the use of compressed air to splice carbon or glass fibers together often shattered the fibers, which was determined by the brittleness of the fibers.
Airbond said that the new equipment developed, with new accessories installed, can effectively control the air, thereby splicing composite materials together, which is the world's first. This technology conceals and protects the splicing area inside a sturdy plastic shell, making it more durable. The shell material is very cheap. If it needs to be covered with resin, the shell can be used as a consumable, while the splicer itself remains unchanged.
"For decades, fiber splicing technology has developed slowly," said Graham Waters, marketing director at Airbond. "If used incorrectly, it will result in a lot of product waste, which will turn high-quality fibers into waste. Airbond has developed a proper splicing method through a large investment. We are honored to receive the Queen's Innovation Award.
The British "Queen Award" is an award for British companies or organizations that have achieved outstanding business achievements in innovation and international trade and are leading in sustainable development. It is the most prestigious business award in the UK.