Project description
Getting the skinny on thermoplastics
Thermoplastics are an important type of plastics. Unlike thermoset plastics that are 'cured' (cross-linked) to set in their hardened form, thermoplastics shape easily under sufficient heat and simply harden and maintain those shapes - at speeds much faster than thermosets can cure - when cooled. They are used in a myriad of applications from non-stick coatings to packaging materials to containers and pipes. Reinforced thermoplastics are set to become a significant part of the aerospace raw materials market. The fuselage skin is a relatively thin outer surface that covers the fuselage and carries cabin tension and shear loads. The EU-funded EMOTION project is developing the mould technology that will be required for mass production of high-performance, low-cost thermoplastic fuselage skins.
Objective
This project aims to develop our innovative mould for efficient high-volume production of thermoplastic fuselage skin. Within the work of this project, first a process and mould will be developed for in autoclave consolidation, including automated layup, assembly, and transport. Second a mould usable for out of autoclave consolidation e.g. in situ consolidation with enhanced functionality for heating and cooling will be developed. Consolidation of thermoplastics at process temperatures of 400°C new challenges, such as large thermal expansion, temperature stability of sealings and cables. However, it offers opportunities to reduce significantly the cycle time and energy consumption, thereby improving the competitiveness.
To overcome these challenges the consortium proposes to manufacture two moulds, one for in autoclave consolidation with limited functionality due to the high environment temperature and an enhanced mould for out of autoclave consolidation. A new temperature profile for the consolidation process is also proposed to be developed. For out of autoclave consolidation adequate surface structures will be investigated.
Fields of science
Keywords
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
IA - Innovation actionCoordinator
80333 Muenchen
Germany