Process Control System for Steel Fibre Production Using Melt Overflow

Fibre Technology Limited has developed a unique process - Melt Overflow with Rapid Solidification Casting - to produce metallic fibres which mesh to form a non woven material - Microtex. It can be produced in a range of alloys and fibre diameters that are either technically or economically non-viable using all existing mineral fibre manufacturing processes (steel rod shaving, melt extraction or spin casting). Microtex is valued by exhaust component manufacturers as a baffle material for its superior heat and noise attenuation properties. The project will enable Fibre Technolology Ltd to fully investigate the parameters affecting fibre density and to implement a digital control system for a step change in output consistency to enable Microtex to be manufactured in volume meeting the fibre density requirements of the initial target market and opening new sector possibilities . Project partner Manchester Univerity's Materials Department will provide fibre technology and process modelling expertise and material testing will be carried out by specialist exhaust system manufacturer Vortex Limited.