• Composites Research
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• v.19 no.1
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• pp.15-21
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• 2006

It is very difficult to make complex 3 dimensional curved-shape composite laminates using the advanced unidirectional composite prepregs. This study shows development process of subscale composite parabolic antenna reflector using unidirectional AS4/PEEK prepreg tapes. The AS4/PEEK thermoplastic composite materials are known to have good thermal and chemical stabilities in addition to their high specific strength and modulus. Various lamination methods were investigated through finite element analyses to make up the laminate design of the reflector. The automated fiber placement method was used to fabricate the reflector. The thermal expansion test using full-bridge strain gage circuits was done to verity the performance of the composite product.