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| Photo: IKV / Fröls |
The key to cost-efficient composite production is material efficiency. This can be increased by minimising production scrap or by the targeted use of the material through utilisation of the product's anisotropy. A number of different processes exist for this. The symposium to be held on 15 and 16 May 2019 at the Institute of Plastics Processing (IKV) in Industry and the Skilled Crafts at RWTH Aachen University will present a selection of such processes. It will also provide an opportunity for the participants to discuss them with experts from industry and research. The event will be chaired by Manfred Reif from Dieffenbacher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau GmbH, Eppingen.
As before, production is dominated by two-dimensional semi-finished products. Here, there are a number of approaches towards scrap-optimised fabrication and forming processes. Various new departure points also exist with near-net-shape preforming processes, in which textile intermediates are dispensed with completely. In addition, the lightweight construction potential can be increased through defined fibre laying along the load paths in the part. Further potential for reducing costs is presented by approaches to mechanical recycling of the production scrap and the processing of recyclate.
The four key symposium topics are derived from these activities, namely preform technologies, design of blanks, tape laying technologies and mechanical recycling. The total of thirteen presentations will be grouped around these topics. The speakers come from the following companies: AFPT, Cannon Afros, Compositence, Conbility, Copro Technology, Dieffenbacher, Munich Composites, SGL Carbon, SigmaNest Systems, and Van Wees UD and Crossply technology. Science will be represented with papers from the Aachen Centre for Integrative Lightweight Design (AZL) and IKV.
The program will be rounded off with a tour of the laboratories for fibre composites at AZL and IKV, which will offer another chance for technical discussion. The get-together with dinner in the evening will provide yet more opportunity for exchanging ideas and experience. IKV extends a cordial invitation to attend this two-day symposium on 15 and 16 May in Aachen.
About IKV
IKV - the Institute for Plastics Processing at RWTH Aachen University, is Europe-wide the leading research and education institute engaged in the field of plastics processing enjoying outstanding reputation. More than 300 staff are employed in finding solutions to problems connected with processing, materials technology and part design in the plastics and rubber industries. IKV's close contacts with industry and science, together with its outstanding facilities, enable cutting-edge research in plastics technology and ensure that students benefit from a comprehensive, practically oriented course of study. Plastics engineering graduates from IKV are thus sought-after experts in industry.
