Mats of Metallic Fibres, Apparatus for Manufacturing Such Mats, and Methods of Manufacturing Articles Incorporating Such Mats

摘要

A mat of metallic (e.g. steel) fibres comprises fibres which are either continuous or have a certain length within a range defined by the length/diameter ratio (L/d) 100 to 2000. The mat is held together by the length and surface structure of the fibres, and also by the application of a bonding agent. The mat has a variety of uses, mainly as a reinforcement in cement and concrete technology where it is of particular benefit in manufacturing thin, double-curved shells, and also in the reinforcement of rubber, plastics and other materials. A technique for manufacturing the mat utilises thin wire which is applied to a surface either continuously or as short fibres. The fibres may be distributed in a uniform or random manner in the mat.