Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming TechnologyWhat is the challenge?
Fiber reinforcements in components with multi-material mixes or hybrid constructions must be applied precisely where those reinforcements can achieve their full effect to be economical. For this goal, it is necessary to design fiber reinforcements in a load-specific and topology-optimized way. This can only be achieved and controlled with automated laying technology and complex machine programs. Furthermore, thermomechanical and material-specific knowledge is necessary in order to generate the required quality of a preform without distortion or internal stresses.
What solution do we have for you?
Near-Net-Shape (NNS) Automated-Tape-Laying (ATL) stands for geometry- and load-path-dependent manufacturing of two-dimensional (2D) fiber-reinforced composites. The thermoplastic or thermoset semi-finished products also allow material combinations with films, foams, inserts, or smart components such as RFID chips. Thermoplastic preforms can then be 3D hot formed in a hot press or further reinforced or functionalized with fiber-reinforced 3D printing. Flexible research and machine production can therefore be carried out on and from demonstrators made of 25 mm wide fiber-reinforced plastic tapes on various substrates. So far data on the use of black and white fiberglass-polyamide tapes as well as the use of carbon fiber tapes has been collected.
What is now available in concrete terms?
The near-net-shape system can produce preforms from 25 mm wide tapes thermoset or thermoplastic with various fiber reinforcements and up to 10 layers. A lay-up table of 1200 x 1200 mm is available for this purpose.
