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Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, has revolutionized composite production by enabling the layer-by-layer construction of intricate composite structures. In the realm of composites, additive manufacturing techniques allow for the creation of complex geometries with precise fiber orientations and resin distribution, optimizing material performance. This technology offers the flexibility to customize parts, reduce waste, and experiment with novel composite combinations. By depositing materials layer upon layer, additive manufacturing facilitates the production of lightweight, high-strength components tailored for specific applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, pushing the boundaries of what's achievable in composite design and fabrication.

Processes in composites manufacturing encompass a diverse array of techniques employed to fabricate composite materials. These processes include methods like hand layup, where layers of resin and reinforcement materials are manually placed, and vacuum infusion, where a vacuum draws resin into a preform. Other techniques like compression molding, filament winding, and automated methods such as 3D printing are utilized to create intricate and specialized composite structures. Each process offers unique advantages in terms of precision, scalability, and efficiency, catering to diverse industry needs. As technology advances, newer methods are emerging, promising faster production cycles, reduced waste, and increased customization, driving the evolution of composite manufacturing towards more sophisticated and versatile methodologies.

An update on the CMH-17 Sandwich Disbond Working Group’s sandwich SCB test and two additional sandwich composite fracture mechanics test methods under development.

The Composite Materials Handbook-17 is publishing new data and industry best practices, helping to fill the aerospace industry’s growing knowledge transfer gap and support advanced materials and structures.

Caracol will acquire Weber’s IP and additive technology with the goal of strengthening the LFAM technological roadmap for European customers and building up its presence in the DACH region.

Additional manufacturing, fabrication and assembly facility prepares the company for its next stage of development.

Led by the Brightland Materials Center, consortium members are developing a flexible process chain, demonstrated via battery casings and wind blades, to repurpose waste directly where it is generated.

Exclusive for Porsche, but with additional applications under development, the carbon fiber composite Halo wheel is certified for road-legal track cars.

New member that includes Greenboats and Greenlander brands strengthens platform for advancing natural fiber composites across industries.

The international round marks a key milestone, consolidating Caracol’s leadership in Europe, the U.S. and the Middle East, supporting its exponential growth and fueling expansion into new markets.

NCAMP documentation lowers barriers for adoption and shortens customer design timelines to enable faster commercial aerospace, defense and AAM qualification.

The Italian LFAM systems manufacturer has opened a new facility in Texas that will support application development, service and the production of its turnkey robot-enabled 3D polymer composite printers.