Development of advanced microwave and light-weight high-speed thermo-response mould technology for woven textile-reinforced thermoplastic components

Objective

The main objective of the AMITERM project is to develop two unique mould technologies to dramatically improve the energy balance in the production of large thermoplastic composite parts by heating mainly the resin and textile-structure and not the complete mould. The state-of-the art processes show serious disadvantages because of a very expensive energy balance and a bad economical and environmental view. This project overcomes this with the following proposed new technologies: JETex-Process with a specific non-metallic mould and rapid heating done by application of microwave energy. The fully penetrated textile structure is then polymerised. HTex-Process, where pre-impregnated 2D or 3D textile inserts and hybrid yarn structures are consolidated in a dynamic heating phase.

Programme(s)

• FP5-GROWTH - Programme for research technological development and demonstration on "Competitive and sustainable growth 1998-2002"

Topic(s)

• 1.1.3.-1. - Key Action Innovative Products, Processes and Organisation

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN

Address

2,Kasteelpartk Arenberg, 44
3001 Heverlee
Belgium

Participants (8)

CREE AG

Switzerland

Address

Zuerichstrasse 23C
2504 Biel-bienne

CYCLICS CORPORATION

United States

Address

University Place 1, Db229
12144 New York

EUROCARBON B.V.

Netherlands

Address

Dr. Nolenslaan 119C
725 Sittard

IFP SICOMP AB

Sweden

Address

Argongatan 30
43122 Moelndal

KUNSTSTOFFTECHNIK BEINER KG

Germany

Address

1,Wilhelm-stölting-weg 1
32657 Lemgo

REGLOPLAS AG

Switzerland

Address

9006 Sankt Gallen

STEWART AUTOMOTIVE RESEARCH LLC

United States

Address

Shotwell Drive 1260
77020 Houston

STRUCTOFORM SPRITZGIESSEN ANISOTROPER STRUKTURKOMPONENTEN GMBH

Germany

Address

336,Juelicher Strasse 336
52070 Aachen