New ways to keep in contact with us!
2008-12-01 06:33:24

Forward Swept Enterprises is now on the popular networking sites Facebook and MySpace. 

If you’re on Facebook search for the ‘Forward Swept Enterprises Inc.’ group.  

Check us out at on MySpace at www.myspace.com/forwardswept

FSE Test Carbon Plate to over 100,000lbs
2008-11-17 05:27:19

FSE recently completed some preliminary testing of maximum strength on some of our aerospace materials. During this time we were able to test samples in actual high tension and compression environments. We tested several structures such as flat sheet and tubing. The materials tested included Carbon Fiber, Kevlar, E-Glass, S-Glass, and Zylon.

During several tubing compression tests our samples maintained structural integrity against loads in excess of 45,000lbs. The flat sheet tests concluded with a remarkable 100,000lbs of force required to pull our tension specimen apart. In light of the successful test results, we will be further testing our products including components such as brackets, beams, and gussets in the near future.

‘The testing of these samples was a huge success. The results further help to demonstrate the remarkable strength characteristics possessed by these advanced materials. One of the greatest benefits of this data is that it will be used to establish a baseline for our laminate materials and manufacturing methods. We’re looking forward to reviewing the data in depth over the next few weeks while working towards pushing the design envelope in the future.’ – Scott Longshore 

Simple Solutions for Everyday Problems
2008-11-17 05:23:39

We were recently approached by one of our friends asking if we could repair his “Rock Band bass drum pedal”, a popular video game accessory. He informed us that the toe section snapped off in play, and he mentioned that this is a fairly common problem. He informed us that the company offers to replace the part for free, but as they are swamped with request it may take some time.

Taking it a step beyond his expectations, we were able to use some smaller sheets of Carbon Kevlar hybrid weave left over from our recent testing. The final product was truly a one-of-a-kind piece. This low cost modification adds plenty of strength and a professional feel to. Additional images of the pedal can be seen in our Custom Design Online Gallery.

FSE: Stronger than a Speeding Bullet
2008-11-17 05:17:40

One question we’re commonly asked is ‘Are the cards bullet proof?’ the simple answer is ‘No’ while the cards may be partially or entirely constructed out of ballistic materials (Kevlar or Zylon), they are simply not robust enough to stop a bullet (see below for more details).

To see what it actually took to catch a bullet the FSE team headed to the local shooting range bringing both the raw materials as well as some resin infused samples. Finally, by the end of the day we had done it … we caught a .22 caliber bullet! Here are some of the lessons learned:

Due to the high velocity of these projectiles even a small caliber bullet contains a large amount of kinetic energy that much be transferred to the fibers.

The fibers perform best in their natural state (woven with no resin) this is due to the fact that in order to absorb the energy a certain amount of give or play is required.                

We are always striving to raise the bar. Although ‘Bullet proof’ business cards are not feasible at this time, don’t be surprised to see ballistic ratings on our products in the future.        

Photos of this as well as our other custom projects can be found in our Custom Design Online Gallery.      

New carbon fiber business card images have been posted online. Check out our gallery!
2008-10-26 15:33:29

The Blackburn Line, released late in 2008, is quickley gaining attention among the high-tech community. We at FSE, have been working to expand the product line to offer more unique looks. Hybrids such as carbon and colored kevlar are new to our catalog as well as a brand new bullet-proofing material to hit the market known as Zylon.

Take a look at what FSE has to offer at our Blackburn Line Image Gallery.

FSE gives back to the community at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
2008-10-26 15:07:19

As graduates from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, FSE co-owner Bo Pollett spent an afternoon back at his alma mater teaching the art and science of carbon fiber. Dr. Perrell's Astronautical Engineering Preliminary Design students participated in a hands-on lab after class, taught by Bo on Thursday. The class learned about the engineering principles behind the strength of carbon fiber and the niche it finds in the field of spacecraft engineering.

The students were excited to get involved and built several projects using carbon fiber, kevlar, and aeromat. Each student left the lab with a better understanding of composite materials as well as the fruits of their labor, their own carbon fiber L bracket.

"It felt good to give back to the university that gave me the oppurtunities to do what I love today. I think the interest that the students showed was really promising. I am always glad to see young people excited to learn and eager to get involved. I'm sure that they will all be great assets to the Aerospace Engineering community when they graduate next year." -Bo Pollett