Processes

Mass Transit

Large, Class A parts every 60-150 seconds

Romeo RIM advances long fiber injection process efficiency for lighter, lower-cost composite parts.

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ATL/AFP

Real-time automated ply inspection (RTAPI) system: CW’s series on automated inspection methods

More composites being used in aircraft, and the pressure for higher production rates means new technologies for automated, in-process inspection while the part is being fabricated. Groups around the world are working on this, and making great strides. 

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Weaving

Improving one-piece aerostructures by automating preforming

IAI’s fully automated “one-shot” RTM production line cuts helicopter seat cost 30% vs. hand layup prepreg.

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Sustainability

Reversible multi-material adhesive bonds

Ferromagnetic nanoparticles in thermoplastic adhesives make it possible to debond and rebond adhesive joints, using electromagnetic energy.

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Weaving

Plant tour: Diamond Aircraft Austria, Wiener Neustadt, Austria

Composites use among general aviation manufacturers is far from unusual, but none apply them quite like this airframer does.

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Braiding

Revolution Composites expands manufacturing facility

Revolution Composites expanded its Norwood, MA manufacturing facility with a 10,000-square-foot addition.

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Audi R8 seat wall: A prelude to production

Audi takes it upon itself to design and develop carbon fiber composite structures that, the company hopes, will enter high-rate production.

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Marine

Velox to distribute Enka materials in Europe

Composites and plastics materials distributor VELOX GmbH (Hamburg, Germany) has announced the expansion of its distribution partnership with Low & Bonar (London, UK) to distribute Low & Bonar’s trademarked Enka-Channel and Enka-Fusion resin infusion consumables throughout Europe.

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CTG Bel-Kur adds 5-axis vertical machining center

The new machine expands the company’s machining department, and helps to improve productivity when producing multi-sided and complex parts.

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SGL offers high-performance organosheet and thermoplastics for overmolding

“Thermoplastic toolbox” includes LFT, UD tapes, woven semi-finished sheets and carbon/glass hybrids in PA and polyolefins for automotive and other high-volume applications.

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