CompositesWorld
Issue link: https://cw.epubxp.com/i/517026
JUNE 2015 36 CompositesWorld FEATURE / REINFORCED THERMOPLASTICS automated, high-speed compression molding work cell from Pinette Emidecau and a robotic, automated tape placement (ATP) system with a single-tow head, supplied by Coriolis. A material testing laboratory, ofces, conference rooms and material storage fnish out the roughly 1,000m 2 foor space within the building. Heerink explains that the consortium receives European-level and regional funding, in addition to fees paid by members, to fnance the equipment and research work. Specifc projects are selected and guided by the TPRC's consortium board and tech- nical advisory board. New technology developed at the facility is the property of TPRC, through a subsidiary entity. "We own the intellectual property," says Heerink, but emphasizes that "Tier 1 members have automatic usage rights to that IP." Like Tier 1s, Tier 2 members also may participate in all projects, but Tier 2 usage of IP, he says, "must be approved by the Tier 1 members." "A big focus here is development of more — and better — engi- neering design tools, both software and material property data- bases, for thermoplastics, to aid engineers in part designs," adds Akkerman, who was instrumental in starting AniForm, which ofers a solver for simulating how composites behave during molding. Other ongoing TPRC research includes investigation into the following: • Overmolding (where a structural fber-reinforced composite element becomes part of an injection molded component; see "Learn More"). • Stamp-forming. • Laser-assisted thermoplastic tape placement. • Recycling methods. Heerink adds that the consortium members are also investi- gating additive manufacturing methods and materials. Member company advantages Firms afliated with TPRC receive the benefts of innovative research, which they can apply to their own operations. CW has reported previously on the adoption of a high-rate thermoplastic part production process for the Airbus (Toulouse, France) A350 XWB at Daher-Socata (see "Learn More"), and will publish a Plant Tour later this year to highlight Fokker Aerostructures' successful thermoplastic aerospace part manufacturing. Tier 1 TPRC member TenCate Advanced Composites, a textile producer since 1704, is a key manufacturer of thermo- plastic composite materials for aerospace. Several metric tonnes of TenCate CETEX thermoplastics are used annually on more than 1,500 applications for engines, interiors and primary aero- structure across the Airbus and Boeing feet families. Its parent company, TenCate, also is a manufacturer of synthetic grass, geosynthetic fabrics and personal protective fabrics, says Rob Boogert, director of operations for TenCate Advanced Compos- ites EMEA: "Our strength is in our diversity and our ability to meet customer demand." While thermoplastics is a major focus, Boogert points out that TenCate's recent acquisition of Amber Compos- ites (Langley Mill, UK) has broadened its thermoset expertise in Europe, and complements TenCate's US prepreg operations as well. Te company is involved in supplying composite materials for virtually all the major aerospace programs. Robotics and automated transport This Coriolis tape-laying robot (top) places thermoplastic impregnated tapes, while this workcell from Pinette Emidecau (bottom) automatically shuttles materials in and out of a heated compression mold. Source | CW / Photos | Jef Sloan