CompositesWorld
Issue link: https://cw.epubxp.com/i/841219
JULY 2017 24 CompositesWorld WORK IN PROGRESS "QEE-TECH is designed for the production of structural compo- nents in high volume," stresses Chang-Manson. "Each cell offers a cycle time of less than one minute, producing from 10,000 to 300,000 parts per year." Typically, conventional neat or short fiber-reinforced polymers (PA, PP, PET, ABS, etc.) are used in the over-molding operation, typically injection or compression molding. "It is a non-isothermal process," explains Chang-Manson. "e insert is preheated to just below melt, and the overmolding material has a temperature above melt. By doing this, the injection molding pressure enables a low void content and good bonding between the insert and the overmolded polymer, with a cycle time that is the same as for normal injection molding," she adds. Reportedly, the preforming process does not negatively impact the cycle time of an over- molding process like injection molding when it is integrated into a production line. e cell can be integrated with other composites manufacturing technologies, such as RTM and thermoforming. Composite door module EELCEE recently partnered with Duckyang Ind. Co. Ltd. and MS Autotech Co. (both automotive parts manufacturers based in South Korea) to develop a composite door module. e research was supported by the Ministry of Trade, Industry & Energy (MOTIE), and the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT) through the "Encouragement Program for e Industries of Economic Cooperation Region." Automated layout, forming, cutting and impregnation The fully automated QEE-TECH cell employs a jig fixed to a table capable of rotating, sliding and/or tilting. It rapidly places the material into the desired 3D shapes. The resulting preform is then automatically cut, preimpregnated and then moved to the injection or compression overmolding operation. The 3D preform process is completed within a cycle-time on the order of 60 seconds. Source | EELCEE