SPT implemented Nexa3D’s Freeform Injection Molding (FIM) technology to help customers shorten time-to-market on complex medical devices in demanding medical-grade materials and to expand on the range of materials that can be quickly and reliably used in prototyping and early device test manufacturing.

The composite tubes white paper explores some of the considerations for specifying composite tubes, such as mechanical properties, maintenance requirements and more.

Foundational research discusses the current carbon fiber recycling landscape in Utah, and evaluates potential strategies and policies that could enhance this sustainable practice in the region.

A supplier of development and manufacturing services to medical device OEMs used Freeform Injection Molding from Nexa3D to accelerate time-to-market and slash prototyping costs for a complex silicone-based IV device. SPT Vilecon explained the process in a recent press release.

The composites-intensive VTOL platform is next expected to undergo a series of test flights in various conditions to validate its performance, safety and reliability, leading up to eventual certification.

Over the last 8 months, Archer Aviation has completed a total of 402 test flights with its composites-intensive aircraft, adding to key milestones.

Prepreg co-molding compound by IDI Composites International and A&P Technology enables new geometries and levels of strength and resiliency for automotive, mobility.

Six U.S. companies have proven their recycling technologies for composites and rare earth elements, and will be supported for relevant scale demonstration and validation.

Prepreg co-molding compound by IDI Composites International and A&P Technology enables new geometries and levels of strength and resiliency for automotive, mobility.

De Caso notes that the specification contains critical contributions such as the inclusion of basalt fiber-reinforced rebar to existing glass fiber-reinforced rebar, as well as higher-performance rebar. He also says that the standard could be useful across the concrete construction value chain.

An on-demand mapping tool for anisotropic materials and polymer material fracture prediction model, i-Lupe, aims to help predict impact, crash behaviors.

A combination of Airtech’s 3D printing materials and Ascent’s production capabilities aim to support increased use of composite additive tooling in spaces like defense and aerospace.

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) certifies use of jointly developed CFRP repair technique on FPSO and FSO industrial systems, addressing traditional steel restoration challenges.

Whether you’re exploring new applications or seeking to gain a foothold in emerging markets, Carbon Fiber 2024 is where you’ll discover the insights and connections needed to shape your business strategy. Register now.

Celebrating National Composites Week 2024, CW looks at how composites are being used to provide the next generation of energy.

Whether you’re exploring new applications or seeking to gain a foothold in emerging markets, Carbon Fiber 2024 is where you’ll discover the insights and connections needed to shape your business strategy. Register now.

CompositesWorld’s Tech Days: Design, Simulation and Testing Technologies for Next-Gen Composite Structures is designed to provide a multi-perspective view of the state of the art in design, simulation, failure analysis, digital twins, virtual testing and virtual inspection.

The Marservis PROeco is a mass transportation marine vessel using Bcomp natural fiber for interior parts in place of standard materials.

Recoat temperature, part orientation and bead geometry are some key design variables to consider for a successful and reliable large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) process.

A report on the demand for hydrogen as an energy source and the role composites might play in the transport and storage of hydrogen.

This collection features detail the current state of the industry and recent success stories across aerospace, automotive and rail applications.

This effort directly relates to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #6, 9, 11 and 12 on clean water and sanitation, industry, sustainable cities and responsible production/consumption, respectively.

How the predictive tool “CZone” is applied to simulate the axial crushing response of composites, providing valuable insights into their use for motorsport applications.

Cevotec, a tank manufacturer, Roth Composite Machinery and Cikoni, have undertaken a comprehensive project to explore and demonstrate the impact of dome reinforcements using FPP technology for composite tanks.

This sidebar to CW’s August 2024 feature article reviews this technology for more efficient composites manufacturing and why it aligns with Koridion active core molding.

Herone, Spiral RTC, Teijin Carbon Europe and Collins Aerospace Almere recycle A350 thermoplastic composite clips/cleats waste into rods for the all-thermoplastic composite Multifunctional Fuselage Demonstrator’s crown.

Company takes next step in strategy to scale rapid development and construction of 3D-printed, climate-resilient, carbon-neutral homes leveraged by patented composite materials.

Prepreg co-molding compound by IDI Composites International and A&P Technology enables new geometries and levels of strength and resiliency for automotive, mobility.

CW Tech Days are virtual events dedicated to the topics impacting the composites industry today. Access past event recordings and register for upcoming Tech Days.

Certified to ISO 13485, Denmark-based SPT Vilecon describes itself as a fully integrated provider of development and manufacturing services to the medical device industry. It offers in-house tool making and injection molding along with other manufacturing services to companies in northern Europe.

In these sessions, experts will discuss the emerging hydrogen economy and the opportunities for composites in this lucrative space.

“The higher performance specified for bars, results in a significant improvement of design and construction of concrete structures reinforced with non-metallic FRP bars,” says De Caso, principal scientist at the University of Miami (Fla., U.S.). “This translates into more efficient and sustainable design of concrete structures.“

Reliable news and information on where and how fiber-reinforced composites are being applied — that’s just the start of what you get from our team here at CompositesWorld.

Explore the technologies, materials and strategies used by composites manufacturers working in the evolving space market.

Continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite targets full circularity in aircraft interior applications, with FST, impact resistance and toughness features.

Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.

CompPair and Composite Recycling introduce a roof scoop made of recycled fibers to an eco-efficient rally buggy, which channels airflow to the engine for optimal, sustainable performance.

Robust and valid prototyping and verification are key to minimizing cost, time, and risk factors in developing medical devices, said SPI Vilecon. FIM is a new toolbox for medical device companies seeking to accelerate their innovation and obtain early verification of part performance and moldability, added the company.

This collection details the basics, challenges, and future of thermoplastic composites technology, with particular emphasis on their use for commercial aerospace primary structures.

During this webinar, the audience will be introduced to a variety of fiber composite technologies — as well as the machines and equipment — from short fibers to continuous fibers, from thermoset to thermoplastic, as well as the according process technology, including a special focus on long-fiber injection (LFI) and structural composite spray (SCS). Focus markets include automotive, aviation and AAM, transportation, and construction. This webinar will provide a detailed overview of according application examples. Agenda: Long fiber injection (LFI) Structural composite spray (SCS) Resin transfer molding (RTM), wet compression molding, etc. Pultrusion FiberForm

An overview of ASTM Standard Guide D8509, and its coupon-level mechanical testing of design properties for analyzing composite bolted joints.

CompositesWorld is the source for reliable news and information on what’s happening in fiber-reinforced composites manufacturing. About Us

Analyzing structural resonance of the aircraft under various loads becomes a critical step in obtaining flight certification.

Additionally, stitch-bonded non-crimp fabrics (NCFs) provide manufacturers and asset owners even more ways to gain a competitive advantage with products built specifically for the environments and loading conditions in which they will be utilized. Join Vectorply Corporation and Creative Composites Group (CCG) for this in-depth webinar detailing the process of engineering NCFs to build composite parts that will stand the test of time. Unlike steel, concrete and wood, composite NCFs can be optimized utilizing various fiber types, architectures and substrates to achieve the specific goals of their application efficiently. High corrosion resistance, strength and stiffness, and longevity can all be accomplished with custom-designed laminates for these heavily abused applications. Vectorply Vice President of Engineering Trevor Gundberg and Creative Composites Group Chief Sales Officer Dustin Troutman will share their industry-leading expertise on the process of laminate design and part production. Attendees can expect to learn when to use composite NCFs in their production process and the wide range of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) composites that Creative Composites Group produces for the industrial and infrastructure markets. Whether you want to learn more about utilizing NCFs in your production process or why CCG’s extensive product line may be the choice for your project, this webinar is the place learn the process and how to take the next steps. Agenda:  Distinct advantages of non-crimp fabrics versus alternative materials How to design laminates for specific processes such as pultrusion and infusion Real-world success spotlights of NCFs in industrial applications

Knowing the fundamentals for reading drawings — including master ply tables, ply definition diagrams and more — lays a foundation for proper composite design evaluation.

Design input collected from the first tests was integrated in a second iteration that took only a couple of hours to complete. By contrast, conventional metal tooling would have taken more than six weeks to design and procure, and the adjustments needed for the second iteration would have taken an in-house tool-shop a week to complete.

The first project is underway to recover carbon fiber used in an A330-200 aircraft, which will then be regenerated for other end uses by HRC.

Jetcam’s latest white paper explores the critical aspects of nesting in composites manufacturing, and strategies to balance material efficiency and kitting speed.

Thermoplastics for Large Structures, experts explored the materials and processing technologies that are enabling the transition to large-part manufacturing.

In the Automated Composites Knowledge Center, CGTech brings you vital information about all things automated composites.

New aircraft is expected to deliver wind turbine blades from 105 meters up to expand the reach of wind energy and achieve global climate goals.

Advanced Engineering is the UK’s largest annual gathering of engineering and manufacturing professionals. The event will help you to source new suppliers, network, build connections and learn about the latest industry developments all in one place. Get involved and exhibit alongside 400+ exhibitors offering solutions and products across all industries and sectors to help improve your productivity and inspire creativity. With over 9,000+ of your peers due to attend and ready to network with and inspire you, this is the event you can’t afford to miss!

Base Materials introduces a high-performance, toughened epoxy tooling board designed for thermoforming and vacuum forming processes, direct-to-part applications and more.

CompositesWorld’s CW Tech Days: Infrastructure event offers a series of expert presentations on composite materials, processes and applications that should and will be considered for use in the infrastructure and construction markets.

Validation of 80-100% tensile strength and comparability to injection molding via Voxelfill extrusion process was achieved through plastic and fiber-filled test series.

Program will focus on sustainable, next-gen wing solutions, including in wing design and manufacturing and advancements in carbon fiber-reinforced composite materials.

Performing regular maintenance of the layup tool for successful sealing and release is required to reduce the risk of part adherence.

During this CW Tech Days event, sponsored by Composites One, experts will offer presentations to review and evaluate the composite materials, processes and applications that should and will be considered for use in the infrastructure and construction markets.

Kennametal will cover the influence of different composite materials characteristics on drilling performance and how to optimize the process. Agenda:  Who is Kennametal? Hole making challenges in composite materials Innovations for hole making applications Upcoming events and academic partnerships

This session is designed to demonstrate the benefits of ultra polymers for aerospace applications with real case examples of Syensqo's polymer portfolio. Agenda:  Introduction to ultra polymers (PAEK, PEKK, PEEK, PAI) key features Application of ultra polymers in aerospace: concrete examples Benefits of ultra polymers: enhanced performance, durability and cost-efficiency

Aerospace manufacturer joins forces with composite materials company to achieve sustainable manufacturing practices that overcome traditional composite layup tooling.

Also read about “… standard related to bolted joint properties,” “...inspection of FRP building repairs” and “...plastic piping systems standard to aid fluid and gas transport.”

The patented FIM process uses high-speed Nexa3D printers and xMOLD resin to print injection molding tools that are compatible with thousands of off-the-shelf injection molding materials, including reinforced high-performance feedstocks. The process reduces design, iteration, and validation cycles using end-product materials to a matter of hours rather than weeks.

The 3D-printed molds for the first and second iterations cost less than €2,000 combined. And the technology enabled a two-day design cycle, which is more than 90% faster than conventional metal tooling.

Formnext Chicago is an industrial additive manufacturing expo taking place April 8-10, 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. Formnext Chicago is the second in a series of Formnext events in the U.S. being produced by Mesago Messe Frankfurt, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, and Gardner Business Media (our publisher).

Recoat temperature, part orientation and bead geometry are some key design variables to consider for a successful and reliable large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) process.

Initial demonstration in furniture shows properties two to nine times higher than plywood, OOA molding for uniquely shaped components.

CompositesWorld's Carbon Fiber conference offers you cutting-edge information and access to industry experts in streamlining manufacturing costs, market outlooks and forecasting, and more. You will make invaluable contacts as you meet and network with the industry's most innovative and influential leaders at Carbon Fiber. __PRESENT

EU project will develop bio-based, repairable and recyclable vitrimer composites and advanced sensors for highly reliable, sustainable wind blades.

Stephen Heinz, vice president of R&I for Syensqo delivered an inspirational keynote at SAMPE 2024, highlighting the significant role of composite materials in emerging technologies and encouraging broader collaboration within the manufacturing community.

The ITHEC 2024 will take place from the 9 to 10 October 2024 in Bremen, Germany. At the 7th International Conference, more than 300 participants from around the world will be presenting and discussing newest scientific results, meet leading international specialists, share their expertise and start business co-operations in the field of thermoplastic composite technologies. The international exhibition will feature 40+ exhibitors showcasing all steps of the supply-chain. Be it materials, machines, testing, processes, or solutions. By combining the exhibition and the conference ITHEC is further fostering the inter-connectivity between science and industry.

How the predictive tool “CZone” is applied to simulate the axial crushing response of composites, providing valuable insights into their use for motorsport applications.

Closed mold processes have many advantages over open molding. In this knowledge center, learn the basics and vital tools needed to produce parts accurately.

FRP rebar is used as internal concrete reinforcement. According to ASTM International member Francisco De Caso, this new standard (D8505) is a milestone after several decades of collaboration to further integrate these composite materials into infrastructure.

Composites automation specialist increases access to next-gen technologies, including novel AFP systems and unique 3D parts using adaptive molds.

Increasingly, prototype and production-ready smart devices featuring thermoplastic composite cases and other components provide lightweight, optimized sustainable alternatives to metal.

The composites industry plays a crucial role in developing lightweight and durable materials for a range of applications, including those critical to national defense. One key focus area is the development of advanced structural materials and manufacturing technologies that support next-generation space, missile and aircraft systems for the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). ARC Technologies LLC (ARC), a division of Hexcel Corporation, based in Amesbury, Massachusetts, is a provider of advanced composites structures, specialty materials and other unique products that provide the U.S. Department of Defense with advanced capabilities to protect service members while in harm’s way. This team’s specialty is to understand a specific need from a program office, PEO, platform manufacturer or other offices within the DOD. With that understanding, the team can design a solution, develop a prototype for test and evaluation, perform extensive in-house testing — including electromagnetic, environmental and structural testing — and then partner with the customer through platform evaluation. The Hexcel Amesbury division has a team of engineers on staff, including mechanical, chemical, electrical and research and development specialists that can provide design, testing and manufacturing capabilities to service customer requirements from concept through production. This presentation will illustrate capabilities in advanced composites and other specialty materials structures, focusing on the Hexcel Amesbury team's niche in electromagnetic signature reduction and other unique capabilities.

Editor in chief of PlasticsToday since 2015, Norbert Sparrow has more than 30 years of editorial experience in business-to-business media. He studied journalism at the Centre Universitaire d'Etudes du Journalisme in Strasbourg, France, where he earned a master's degree.

The JEC Forum DACH is a business meetings event organised by JEC The JEC Forum DACH is organised on October 22 and 23, 2024 by JEC, in partnership with the AVK, gathering the composite materials community from the DACH Region (Germany, Austria and Switzerland).

The composites industry is increasingly recognizing the imperative of sustainability in its operations. As demand for lightweight and durable materials rises across various sectors, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction, there is a growing awareness of the environmental impact associated with traditional composite manufacturing processes.

Explore the cutting-edge composites industry, as experts delve into the materials, tooling, and manufacturing hurdles of meeting the demands of the promising advanced air mobility (AAM) market. Join us at CW Tech Days to unlock the future of efficient composites fabrication operations.

Arris presents mechanical testing results of an Arris-designed natural fiber thermoplastic composite in comparison to similarly produced glass and carbon fiber-based materials.

ASTM International’s (Conshohocken, Pa., U.S.) composite materials committee (D30) has developed a new standard specification for the latest generation of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) rebar.

SPT Vilecon said it has begun expanding the range of injection mold prototyping with silicone, metal, and ceramic materials to provide medical device manufacturers with an even wider selection of product development and verification services.

Freeform Injection Molding technology from Nexa3D compresses design, iteration, and validation cycle times into a matter of hours rather than weeks.

Medical device manufacturers are tasked with developing elaborate test protocols to ensure that the product in development is safe and meets essential requirements. If these tests are conducted late in the development process, the more onerous and risky they become. SPT Vilecon often works with silicone, a material that is extensively used in medical applications because of its chemical resistance, mechanical performance, and biocompatibility. However, silicone parts are notoriously difficult to prototype and test, since most grades need to be injection molded to achieve their full performance potential, said the company. FIM enabled SPT Vilecon to offer an alternative to a customer developing an intravenous (IV) silicone product — the use of 3D-printed tooling to perform early design and material verification at a fraction of the cost of conventional methods.

Injection-molded silicone parts were produced within two days, allowing early verification of key design and performance aspects.

Based on input collected from the first two iterations, the design of the silicone part was approved and manufacturing of a metal tool was initiated with full confidence of part moldability and performance. The in-house tool shop built the final metal tooling in four weeks without iterations.

Low-melt polyaryletherketone (LMPAEK) unidirectional tapes provide outstanding thermal and fire protection, demonstrating their effectiveness through rigorous testing. These tapes are fire, smoke and toxicity compliant with FAR25.853 and meet OSU Heat Release Rate standards. The tapes were tested under ISO 2685/AC 20-135 Change 1, meeting the fireproof criteria. Additionally, they met UL 2596 requirements for battery thermal runaway tests. These tapes are crucial for high-temperature applications showcasing their resilience and safety in both aerospace and automotive applications. Part of a broader range that includes films and compounds, Victrex LMPAEK materials are valued for their excellent processability and weldability. They offer versatile solutions for complex needs beyond traditional structural parts, such as: thermal runaway and lightning strike protection, heat sinking, and intricate bracketry. Victrex LMPAEK materials facilitate automation and high-rate production while addressing performance and sustainability challenges. With reduced environmental impact, lower weight and cost-efficiency, they meet the evolving demands of the transportation industry and support innovative design solutions. Agenda:  Introduction to LMPAEK ecosystem, highlighting unidirectional tapes Thermal and fire protection performance: applications and benefits Material forms and processability Sustainability and efficiency Conclusion and future innovations

CW’s editors are tracking the latest trends and developments in tooling, from the basics to new developments. This collection, presented by Composites One, features four recent CW stories that detail a range of tooling technologies, processes and materials.