Automated Preforming in composite manufacturing
Many composite forming processes such as press consolidation, press forming, vacuum forming or diaphragm forming are based on the use of tailored 2D preforms or blanks. Although the forming processes are usually efficiently automated, the blanks or preforms going into these processes are often produced manually. By automating the production of preforms, you can match the rate of follow-on processes and significantly reduce manual labour.
What are the benefits of automating the production of preforms?
Automation of preforming ensures high volume production at constant quality. Manual preforming is a repetitive process which requires both skill and concentration from the operators. With higher production rates it becomes increasingly difficult for operators to keep up with production while maintaining quality. Automated Preforming can solve these challenges by handling plies, assembling blanks robustly and can even include automatic inspection systems. Digital traceability throughout the process ensures transparency on your shop floor.
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Eliminates manual lay-up
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100% net-shape
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Suitable for dry fibre and thermoplastic
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Extremely versatile: can handle any material form
Other advantages:
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Reduce manual labour
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Redeploy skilled workers
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Reduce cost of quality control
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Easy adaption of production rate
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Allows for high product mix with short turnover times
How does automated preforming work?
To go from roll or ply kits to stabilised 2D preforms, Airborne has developed a toolbox of technologies to suit a large range of materials and production rates. The building blocks can be combined to achieve the optimal automation solution, from small, flexible R&D systems to high volume production lines. Easy programming allows for short start up times with minimum engineering effort. Thermoplastic composite blanks or dry fibre preforms with a binder can be stabilised with spot welds.
Specifications
Every Preforming cell is a bespoke product for our clients. Using a building block approach, we combine our existing, proven technologies into one turn-key cell for specific requirements. Airborne is able to digitally connect all building blocks. You can keep an overview of the progress in your production remotely. We offer personal consultation with our technical experts to identify the optimal solution for your manufacturing challenge.
Want more information? Request our technical specifications to get more details about main properties, materials, benefits and floor space utilisation etc.
More automated solutions
Automated Laminating
Our Laminating solution makes the layup of tailored thermoset prepreg preforms effortless, by combining tape laying, cutting, and pick & place in a single cell.
Automated Kitting
Our Kitting solution delivers fully sorted and sequenced composite ply kits to increase productivity, improve material utilisation and reduce work preparation.
Automated Honeycomb Potting
Our Honeycomb Potting solution enables easy manufacturing of locally reinforced honeycomb sandwich panels, while reducing work preparation, material waste and the cost of quality.
Contact
For more information about our products and services, please contact:
Elio Pajares Bretones – Business Development Manager Airborne
Tel +31(0)6 1347 8642
e.pajares@airborne.com
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