A groundbreaking approach to cost-efficient large-scale layup tooling for Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) has been successfully demonstrated as part of the German nationally funded aeronautic research project NEUTRON (grant number 20M2114D), in close collaboration with Airbus Helicopters. The innovative tooling solution utilizes 3D-printed shell elements made of sand by binder jetting, which are then assembled and impregnated with epoxy resin using vacuum infusion.

This novel method aims to address key industry challenges by significantly reducing costs and lead times while ensuring suitability for manufacturing prototype composite parts. The demonstrator part developed within the project is a fuselage sideshell of a mid-size helicopter, showcasing the potential of this approach for aeronautic applications.

Visitors to the JEC fair can learn more about innovative composite technologies by visiting our booth at 6T42. Experts will be available to discuss the project, its results, and future applications of this revolutionary tooling method in aerospace manufacturing.

For more information, please contact:

Juergen Filsinger
Senior Engineer »Composite Processing«
Fraunhofer Institute for Casting, Composite and Processing Technology IGCV
Am Technologiezentrum 2 | 86159 Augsburg | Germany
Phone: +49 821 90678-211
E-mail: juergen.filsinger@igcv.fraunhofer.de