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Design Innovation in Plastics: Finalists earn praise for high quality

Author:gly    Date: 2024-09-30    

presentations - products made by injection moulding

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

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

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!

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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).

In some cases, it may even be beneficial to combine both additive and subtractive manufacturing process to complete an end goal. As an example, SLA and SLS could be used as a preliminary stage before moving the CNC machining.

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

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

As far as resolution is concerned, the accuracy of CNC machining at WayKen is typically higher than 3D printing, between 0.02mm and 0.05mm – 0.10mm depending on geometry. Turnaround time for 3D printing is typically faster at just 2-5 days versus 3 – 8 days for CNC. This does however come at a tradeoff with the volume of products than can be produced. A typical SLA/SLS run can create 1 – 10 parts, whereas CNC has a range of 1 – 50.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

In automotive, WayKen applies a plethora of CNC prototyping and rapid tooling methods to the production of spare parts. The services are useful to car manufacturers running limited trials of a car/motorcycle, and allow volume customization. WayKen automotive rapid prototyping is delivered as a complete service, guiding customers through proof of concept design reviews and mechanical component engineering tests, to show car projects and exterior/interior prototypes.

SLS and SLA 3D printing are useful for fast response solutions. With digital operational tools like slicer software, the process does not require as much specialized training as CNC machining. With little labour involved, the manufacturing cost of 3D printing is priced based on the amount of materials. As larger parts cost more 3D printing is advantageous for small volumes and lightweight parts. Realtively simple structures, wth less demand for surface quality and precision parts, also benefit the most from WayKen’s 3D printing services. The technology is ideal for protoyping small medical devices, industrial tooling, and outer covering of electrical tools.

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

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

Established in Hong Kong and located in Shenzhen, WayKen is a contender for China’s most experienced prototype manufacturer. The WayKen Prototype shop operates across two sites, one for plastic and one for metal. In total, the facilities span 20,000 square feet, employing over 60 dedicated personnel. WayKen’s specialist prototyping services include 3D printing (particularly SLA and SLS), CNC milling and rapid tooling technology.As a service bureau operating within high value automotive, medical, and aerospace industries, WayKen Rapid’s expertise is in selecting the right technology for the specific application, and delivering results at a cost competitive with the west.

Novel hybrid overmolding technology achieves novel thermoplastic composite parts to replace machined aluminum components on commercial aircraft, as well as reduce manufacturing costs and timeline.

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

Carbon fiber-reinforced PA12 thermoplastic launched by CRP Technology is a 100% recycled high-performance material derived from the Top-Line range for 3D printing.

The question is – which technology should you choose? As a WayKen spokesperson states, “it is very difficult to get a standard answer to the cost comparison between 3D printing and CNC machining.” Instead, technology should be selected based on application.

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

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.

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.

CNC machined parts at WayKen on the other hand can be used to make functional prototypes which are suitable for engineering evaluation and testing. In contrast to the SLA and SLS services offered, CNC machining requires specially trained engineers to pre-program the processing parameters and toolpaths, then machine according to the programs. Manufacturing costs are therefore quoted taking the extra labor into account. CNC’s advantage is for machining parts with special requirements such as dimensional tolerances and surface qualities.

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

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.

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

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

Luckily, the company’s quoting system quickly responds to enquiries within 24 hours by our allowing “On-time delivery — every time, no exceptions.” Request a quote from WayKen Rapid online now at WayKen.com.

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.

The competitive price point for all services, according to the company’s website, is “normally 30%-50% less than the US/European prices, due to lower labor costs. Moreover allowing a quick project start compares to other rapid prototype companies.”

CNC operation is determined by computer aided design (CAD) or computer aided manufacturing (CAM) data translated into Gcode – as used by 3D printers. The precision tool path in a CNC system creates an excellent surface finish, and parts can be sanded and finished on the same machine.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

“Traditional” processes at WayKen cover CNC plastic/metal parts machining, vacuum injection molding and rapid injection molding. In the case of CNC machining, a solid block of raw material can be used.

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

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

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

“As a solution provider, Victrex firmly believes that the path to innovation lies in understanding customer needs and pioneering solutions where PEEK and PAEK deliver a strong advantage,” adds Jonathan Sourkes, head of market and business development for Victrex. “Through this, we continue to redefine what is possible, delivering transformative solutions that address pressing, unmet industry needs. Our commitment to innovation and strategic collaborations enables us to be at the forefront of technological advancements, driving progress and creating a more sustainable future for industries worldwide.”

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

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

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.

WayKen specializes in an ability to machine a range of plastics (opaque and optically clear) and aluminum. In the CNC process, a toolhead gradually subtracts material from a solid block. As such, molecular stability of the base material remains constant producing a part with unparalleled tensile strength.

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

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.

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

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.

The primary SLA material used by WayKen is an ABS-like photopolymer, suitable for use in the lost-wax method of casting favoured in jewelry making and dental industries. SLS uses powdered Nylon feedstock, which acts like a support material throughout 3D printing, cutting down post-processing times. Parts made using SLS also benefit from the potential of nesting meaning that more designs can be 3D printed within the same build.

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

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

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

3D printing services at WayKen are primarily laser-powered, offering a high level of speed and accuracy. WayKen stereolithography (SLA) is a UV based curing process, and selective laser sintering (SLS) uses a carbon dioxide laser.

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

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

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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.

The fabrication of the proposed thermoplastic uses hybrid overmolding where thin sheets of carbon fibers are combined with Victrex’s LMPAEK polymer, creating a unidirectional (UD) tape. This material is then stacked and consolidated into one panel with the application of heat and pressure, with small pieces cut from the panel. Finally, the short fiber-reinforced PEEK compound is injection molded onto the insert. A fusion bond similar to a weld forms between the PEEK compound and LMPAEK composite insert as the molten PEEK melts the surface of the insert. As the part cools, the PEEK compound and LMPAEK composite solidify as one piece.

The hybrid overmolding process creates a part that is reported to be mechanically stronger and stiffer than a part only made with PEEK compound due to the continuous fiber used in the composite insert. The hybrid overmolding combines injection molding with thermoforming to create a finished part that is lighter, cheaper, produces less waste, can be produced faster and has optimized fatigue performance.

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.

The rapid production time of 3D printing means it is finding increased uses throughout the medical industry. WayKen SLA & SLS 3D printing for medicine can be used to make hand held appliances, concept models, and new devices in low volume, e.g. diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments, electronic apparatus and ultrasonic systems. These devices are valuable for surgical planning, simulation and also to map dental correction procedures.

“The aerospace industry continues to increasingly adopt thermoplastic materials as they lower aircraft weight, reduce time and waste from machined metals and provide sustainable goods for our future,” explains Jim Lee, general manager of Tool Gauge. “As part of this collaborative project with Victrex, we aim at replacing machined aluminum components used in commercial aircraft that are currently expensive and take months to produce with new thermoplastic composite versions.”

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).

One of the main advantages of this process is material availability as virtually any material can be CNC machined. For this reason, and its use in industry since the 1940s, CNC machining remains the most common means of prototyping to date

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

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.

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.

Tool Gauge (Tacoma, Wash., U.S.), a U.S. manufacturer of complex, high-value plastic and metal assemblies for global aerospace OEMs, and Victrex (Lancashire, U.K.). a company offering polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyaryletherketone (PAEK) based polymer solutions, are collaborating to develop a new co-molding technology for the aerospace industry. This solution will use formed carbon fiber composites combined with carbon-filled thermoplastics.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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

Approximations of the general parameters of each process are detailed on WayKen.com in the company’s Technology Selection Guide, and a supporting Materials Selection Guide.

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

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.

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

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