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What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their applications in aviation and automobile industries.
Paper
GS-III
Question
Q17
Marks
5M
Word Limit
150W
Practice Answer Writing
Word limit: 150 wordsMarks: 5MSuggested time: 7 min
Model answer will be available after you finish writing.
Model Answer
Model Answer
Source: PW OnlyIAS · PW OnlyIAS Editorial
393 wordsHas diagram
Answer
Approach:IntroductionInitiate with a brief explanation of what FRP composites are, including the components involved in their formation.BodyDescribe the step-by-step manufacturing process of FRP composites.Discuss the applications of FRP composites in the aviation and automobile industry.Provide real-world examples that demonstrate the use of FRP composites within the Indian aviation and automobile sectors.ConclusionSummarize by highlighting the increasing significance of FRP composites in industries where strength, durability, and lightweight characteristics are paramount.
Introduction
Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites are materials made from two distinct components – a matrix (often a plastic like epoxy, polyester, or nylon) and a reinforcing fibrous material (like glass or carbon fibers). The result is a light, strong, and durable material with superior mechanical properties.Body
Manufacturing of FRP Composites:- Moulding:A mould of the desired shape is prepared.
- Laying the Fibres:The fibres are laid in the mould. These can be unidirectional, bidirectional, or randomly oriented.
- Adding the Matrix:The matrix material is then added, which can be done via processes like hand lay-up, spray-up, pultrusion, filament winding, or injection moulding.
- Curing:The composite is then left to cure, hardening into its final form.
Applications in Aviation and Automobile Industry:
- Aviation:FRP composites are extensively used in the aviation industry due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. They are used in the manufacturing of aircraft bodies, interior components, and more.For example, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is made up of 50% FRP composites by weight.
- For example, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is made up of 50% FRP composites by weight.
- Automobile Industry:In the automotive industry, FRP composites are used to make lightweight vehicle components. They are used in body panels, interior components, and structural parts.For instance, high-performance cars often feature carbon-fibre body parts.
- For instance, high-performance cars often feature carbon-fibre body parts.
A few examples:
- Aviation:In India, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has been using FRP composites for manufacturing aircraft components.
- Automobile Industry:Indian automobile companies, like Mahindra & Mahindra, have started to incorporate FRP components in their vehicles for weight reduction and fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
FRP composites, with their unique characteristics, have found extensive applications in industries where strength, durability, and lightweight are crucial. As India advances in sectors like aviation and automobile manufacturing, the role of FRP composites is expected to grow, contributing to the production of efficient and high-performance products.Diagrams & Charts
Original source: PW OnlyIAS
About This Question
Paper
GS Paper III — Economy, Science & Technology, Environment
Subject
Science and TechnologySubtopic
Science and Technology - developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology; Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights
Difficulty
Easy
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is UPSC Mains 2013 GS-III Question 17 about?▼
This question is from the Science and Technology topic under GS-III (2013). It carries 5 marks with a 150-word limit. Difficulty: Easy.
Is there a model answer available for this question?▼
Yes, a 393-word model answer is available from PW OnlyIAS by PW OnlyIAS Editorial.
How should I approach this easy-level UPSC Mains question?▼
For a 5-mark question with 150-word limit, structure your answer with a brief introduction, 2-3 main body points with evidence, and a forward-looking conclusion.