Projects implemented
The technology of producing composites optimised for loads,
Acronym: InverTec
Project objective
The aim of the InverTec project was to develop and verify the technology for the manufacture of components from hybrid composite materials, characterized by reduced weight and high mechanical properties, important for the operational properties of components, e.g. structures for strengthening the hulling of bodywork, energy absorbers, light structural components of aircraft.
Thanks to the selective reinforcement of FPR construction using metal alloy inserts, higher components were obtained, for traditional composites, plasticity.
As part of the project, it was developed and validated as part of case studies, a new, load-optimized, hybrid composite material consisting of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibers along with integrated metal alloy inserts (e.g. steel, aluminium).
This approach allows, in addition to improving the selected mechanical properties (e.g. the rigidity of the component, the degree of energy absorption during dynamic load), also increases the technology of the assembly of hybrid composite components with other structural elements.
In order to increase the efficiency of the production processes of composite components (performance, economics) the developed technology was based on adapted pressing processes.
Application potential
Thanks to the knowledge gained as a result of the validation of the developed technology on demonstrators proposed by industry representatives, light hybrid composite structures can be implemented in the manufacturing sector by companies in the automotive, aviation, electromechanical and tool industries.
The results of the project also allowed to expand the range of materials formed by pressing processes.
Project consortium partners
The project was carried out as part of the CORNET Action – 22 in an international consortium with the participation of the Cluster of Innovative Manufacturing Technologies of CNNOMATECH (Poland) acting as coordinator and Wrocław University of Technology (Poland) and the EFB European Association of Sheet Metal Working (Germany), Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU (Germany), Technische Universität Chemnitz / Department of Lightweight Structures and Polymer Technology (Germany).