« Back to Other

Alpha Composites

Short Gap Crossing

To assist soldiers overcome the challenges they face on the front line, Alpha Composites Ltd has developed an ultra-lightweight, multi-purpose system known as the ‘Short Gap Crossing’.
Chosen by the UK MOD for operations in Afghanistan, this versatile system is a groundbreaking new product.  Deployable as either a bridge, a ladder, or an emergency stretcher, it is light enough to be carried out on the front line and strong enough to hold the weight of a soldier. The innovative modular structure requires minimal maintenance, taking only two minutes to assemble. Four modules can be interlocked to provide a 3m gap crossing, and six modules interlocked can be used as a ladder to reach up to 4.5m in height.


Requirements

  • Carbon Component Prepreg 650gsm 2x2T E722 - Used in the main ply and throughout the module with additional plies on the mandrels.
  • Carbon Component Prepreg 205gsm 2x2T E722 -  Utilized in the core areas of the module.
  • Aramid 170gsm 4HS E722 - 1 ply was used throughout to increase tensile strength and further reduce weight.
  • EF72 Adhesive Film 200gsm - Used for the bonding of the honeycomb
  • Aluminum Honeycomb - Used in the main structure to increase stiffness

Amber Solution

  • Amber Composites worked closely with Alpha Composites to reduce manufacturing costs and to provide composite materials in pre-cut form ready for lamination.

Products Used