Automated Fabrication of Concrete Beams with Wound FRP Reinforcement

Fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs) have emerged in the construction industry as an alternative to steel, which is often plagued by corrosion issues. However, the application of FRPs has largely followed the same conventional on-site construction techniques that involve prismatic structural components. This unjustifiable waste of materials poses significant economic and environmental issues. Therefore, it is essential to transition from traditional construction methods to innovative approaches that facilitate the creation of geometrically complex components, thereby optimising material usage. This paper elaborates on the construction of non-prismatic structural members reinforced with wound FRP through an automated process intended to improve both the quality and speed of construction. The challenges encountered in this endeavour are addressed, and the latest advancements in the winding industry are incorporated, particularly the additional degrees of freedom offered by modern winding machines. The paper proposes a viable construction solution that drives industry acceptance and boosts productivity across the sector.