Sustainable Material Development

Q&A session

Low power curing of composites using direct electric cure

VARTM (Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Moulding) processing is typically challenging for large scale aerospace grade composite components. Although VARTM processing methods are extensively utilised in the boat hull and wind blade manufacturing industries the tight tolerances and strict quality requirements of the aerospace industry often deem RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) processing preferable over VARTM. Despite RTM being a very robust process both capital investment and processing time are increasing exponentially with the increase of the part size often making such processes not favourable over conventional prepreg Autoclave processing.

Recent Advances in Dry Fibre Processing Technology and Capability

In light of the increasing material costs, energy costs and sustainability requirements, future designs across automotive, aerospace and tooling will need to be yet more proactively optimised. However, further gains in lightweight performance cannot come at the cost of excessive commercial development or end-user operating risk and costs. Even strongly optimized components must remain fit for purpose and behave robustly under real-world variabilities of operating conditions.

Q&A session

SAMPE Introduction