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Process

Composites

The holistic view of fiber-reinforced plastics, starting from the selection of materials and influencing the composite properties through to the technological realization of manufacturing concepts, opens up the scope for design in the conception of components and structures. 

The main focus of fiber composite technology is the processing technology with the different methods available in the modern equipped pilot plant for different component geometries as well as fiber and resin types. Depending on fiber content and fiber orientation, tailor-made products are possible. 

We are your contact for publicly funded projects and direct cooperations.
Please contact us!

Dr.-Ing. Jana Fiedler
Group Manager Research | Composites
j.fiedler@skz.de

Services

Assessment, analysis and consulting

In the event of damage, we offer you competent help with analysis and inspection. In addition, we support you in optimizing manufacturing parameters and are your contact for checking engineering, material and assembly quality. Depending on your needs, report preparation and expert opinions are provided.

Development of repair concepts

You need a repair concept for damaged components? We advise you on the detection and classification of damage to fiber composite structures and develop efficient repair strategies for your case.

Production of samples and prototypes

The production of samples and prototypes can be implemented on a customer-specific basis using existing fiber composite technologies. Various fibers, core materials and resin types can be used for this purpose. Among other things, the production of three-dimensional free-form surfaces and multifunctional sandwich elements is offered.

Specimen production

Test specimens can be produced with the existing fiber composite techniques for different standards. Furthermore, we offer the production of customized geometries.

Material selection

The structure of the material composite in fiber-reinforced plastics enables variable component properties. During the product life, these properties should not change in order to maintain functionality. We provide comprehensive advice on the selection of reinforcing fibers and matrices as well as the fiber-compatible design of components and molding tools.

Comparison and selection of suitable technologies

The processing technology of fiber-reinforced plastics is crucial for achieving the required material and component properties. In addition to established technologies, such as the processing of prepregs in the autoclave and vacuum infusion technology, the SKZ also offers possibilities for individual technology comparisons through the RTM process and pressing technology in order to evaluate material- and application-specific approaches.

Non-destructive component testing

You want to obtain information about your fiber-reinforced components that is not visible to the naked eye? SKZ offers the integration and, if necessary, individual adaptation of non-destructive testing methods based on contact and non-contact ultrasonic technology, thermography, shearography, microwave and terahertz technology. In this way, you can reliably detect e.g. delaminations, impact damage, ondulations, foreign material inclusions and cracks. 

For this purpose, SKZ offers a cost-neutral assessment of your inspection task and enables comparative examinations on your components to identify the most suitable method, taking into account technical and economic aspects.

Contact:
Giovanni Schober | +49 931 4104-464 | g.schober@skz.de

To the section measurement technology

Training and Networking

As experts in the field of plastics technology, we strive to pass on the knowledge we have acquired over decades to our customers. From material development and manufacturing processes to the application of various testing and measuring methods - in our numerous practice-oriented training courses, you as a participant will acquire the necessary knowledge in dealing with plastics as a material. This begins with the selection of the right materials and compliance with production-oriented design rules, continues with the correct handling of equipment and machines for the manufacture and processing of plastic components and ends with the correct understanding of quality criteria and the associated use of testing and measuring tools.
Bringing together people from different areas of the company as well as from different industries to exchange experiences and technical know-how is also a top priority for us, in addition to the pure transfer of knowledge. Our numerous specialist events provide the ideal venue for a free exchange of ideas. Renowned speakers from a wide range of industries and excellent technical presentations make the SKZ conferences popular meeting places within the plastics industry.

To the section education

Analytics and testing services

Our testing laboratory offers you services around the testing of fiber-reinforced plastics. With modern equipment and competent testing personnel, mechanical-technological, physical-chemical and physical tests are carried out.

Quality control

As a partner of small and medium-sized plastics processors, we carry out tests in the field of incoming and quality control of plastics and plastic products.

Mechanical testing

Mechanical properties play a crucial role in the application of fiber-reinforced composites. The following tests are offered:

  • Tensile, bending and compression test
  • Tensile shear test
  • Barcol hardness test
Physikalische Prüfungen

Mit diesen Untersuchungen können u.a. physikalische Stoffkennwerte ermittelt werden:

  • Dynamische Differenz-Thermoanalyse (DSC) – Bestimmung des Aushärteverhaltens und der Glasübergangstemperatur
  • Kalzinierungsverfahren - Bestimmung des Textilglas- und Mineralstoffgehaltes
  • Bestimmung der Dichte

Technical equipment

Autoclave process

In the autoclave process, textile fiber matrix semi-finished products (prepregs) pre-impregnated with reactive resins are cured in a pressure vessel (autoclave) under the action of heat and pressure. The semi-finished fiber products are cut to size and, depending on requirements, placed in a specific position under a defined orientation in the forming tool. The mold is then evacuated in a film bag and the prepregs are cured in the autoclave under predefined temperature-pressure-time specifications. After the cooling phase, the component is demolded and is ready for final steps such as finishing or painting.

Cutter

We offer you the possibility to have extremely precise and individual cuts of dry fiber semi-finished products as well as prepregs carried out by us.

Hand lay-up process

One of the greatest advantages of this process is the production of components of almost any size and the possibility to realize undercuts with split shapes as well as different wall thicknesses in the component. The hand lay-up process requires only low investment costs and enables the production of very complex component geometries as well as the use of different semi-finished products and reinforcing materials in one component. Our expert staff will be happy to assist you with your projects, helping you from the initial idea to the finished product.

Surface treatment process

The following methods are available for mechanical, physical and chemical pretreatment of plastic surfaces.

  • Low-pressure plasma
  • Atmospheric pressure plasma
  • Corona discharge
  • Flame treatment
  • CO2 blasting
  • Blasting
  • Grinding
  • Flame pyrolysis
  • Priming
     
Pressing process

The proven production by means of hot and wet pressing leads to demanding surface qualities on both sides and exact form accuracy of the product to be manufactured. A hydraulic 4-column press is available at SKZ for this purpose.

RTM and RTM Light processes

The RTM process offers the possibility of producing parts with complex geometry and integrating additional functions into a finished part. For example, inserts can be included in the shaping of the mold. In addition to compliance with tight tolerances, the outstanding surface quality, high fiber content and short manufacturing times are the main advantages of this manufacturing technology.

Vacuum infusion process

This process is particularly suitable for the production of very large individual parts as well as small batches. The process gives the manufactured components a high quality and a perfect surface on one side. Furthermore, the manufactured components have a high fiber content.

SKZ has the necessary know-how and vacuum technology to implement your projects using this process.

Project

Qualify wind power rotor blade repair methods.

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