DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURING: Surface Generation speeds composites throughput with one-shot stamp-forming process

摘要

Surface Generation is working with research group WMG, an academic department of the University of Warwick, and AGC AeroComposites to develop new composite press-forming processes for automotive and aerospace manufacturers. Surface Generation, a U.K.-based provider of advanced carbon-fiber processing technologies, is developing new press-forming mold faces that incorporate its patented PtFS (Production to Functional Specifications) technology for the production of high-performance thermoplastic composite components. By integrating Surface Generation's active thermal management technologies into the mold face itself, WMG and AGC are able to continuously adapt heating and cooling levels for each mold area and process stage in real time. The companies believe that this enhanced capability will improve both the quality and throughput of compression molding applications.