Cure System Equipment Optimization for Rapid Cure Epoxy Coated Fiberglass Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Topic No.: N08-137 Topic Title: Cure System Equipment Optimization for Rapid Cure Epoxy Coated Fiberglass Proposal No.: N082-137-0713 Firm: Agiltron Corporation 15 Cabot Road Woburn, Massachusetts 01801-1003 Contact: Thomas Curl Phone: (781) 935-1200 Web Site: http://www.agiltron.com Abstract: Based on Agiltron's extensive experience of design and fabrication of UV LED cure systems that are currently employed in the fiber optics field, we propose to construct a new cost-effective UV LED-based cure system and epoxy resin for the rapid cure epoxy impregnated fiberglass for galvanic barrier ply applications. Our novel optical design enables this UV cure system to deliver sufficient and consistent energy over a long working distance and fully cure epoxy impregnated fiberglass parts over a variety of shapes and sizes without having to individually tailor the cure parameters for each part. The system uses small high-power LED's in a specialized and unique configuration, as a solid-state source, to provide a very robust and flexible cure system. This design is reconfigurable and can be either a hand-held "UV light brush" powered by a compact battery for small spaces or repair areas, or as part of a larger `plug-in' portable system. The portable system automatically controls exposure and uses minimized floor and storage space. In both configurations the system is energy efficient, low power, light weight, with a very low heat load compared with current lamp technology.. The system is upgradeable and easy to maintain. Benefits: The industrial field of energy-cure coatings, including paints, sealants, adhesives, and corrosion protection coatings, over various shape and size surfaces will benefit from the technology developed by this program. OEM and repair shops for commercial aircraft, automotive, and marine vehicles, at the very least, will all benefit from the technology. This technology will dramatically reduce the cure cycle time, the power consumption and waste heat generation of conventional systems, and minimize environmental dependency and impact. Return