Key Capabilities

Flexibility

As we cater for a variety of processes and products, our facilities are flexible to adapt to different project needs.

Automation

Recognising the key to high volume automotive composite manufacture is automation, we're equipped with an automated cutting table, robotic pick and place for automated lay-up and automated systems for press-loading of materials.

SMC Compounding

Our Schmidt & Heinzmann SMC Production Line gives us a unique, independent and small batch capability dedicated to Innovative R&D. Fully equipped with in-process areal weight measurement and heated line, we can compound carbon and glass fibres with a range of resins in a variety of formats.

Materials Characterisation

We offer both mechanical and analytical materials characterisation using state-of-the-art facilities. This characterisation capability is critical in the optimisation of manufacturing processes and is also used to provide high-quality input data for predictive CAE activities and subsequent validation of models.

Compression Moulding

Using the multi-functional Engel v-Duo 1700 tonne press, we perform R&D and demonstration activities for all high-volume automotive candidate processes: prepreg compression moulding, SMC compression moulding, thermoplastic rapid stamp forming and multi-material compression moulding.

Automated Composites Manufacturing

Our Automated Composites Manufacturing line provides the capability to produce composite components in a single forming-moulding stage using open-edge moulding processes with either diaphragm membranes or gripper systems.

Complex Preforming

With a dedicated 150 tonne preforming cell with a high level of automation and advanced material handling, the focus is on complex preforming of dry fabrics, dry NCF and pre-impregnated thermoset or thermoplastic composite materials.

High pressure resin transfer moulding (HP-RTM)

Our Hennecke Streamline system is suitable for HP-RTM with seamless integration with the Engel v-Duo press.

Materials Characterisation

We offer both mechanical and analytical materials characterisation using state of the art facilities. This characterisation capability is critical in the optimisation of manufacturing processes and is also used to provide high-quality input data for predictive CAE activities and subsequent validation of models.

Process Monitoring

Our equipment and moulds are equipped with instrumentation to optimise process parameters for reduced cycle time and cost. All key equipment is monitored to provide energy consumption data for cost modelling studies & LCA.

Simulation

We are developing reliable process simulation capability for the key manufacturing processes: SMC compression moulding, complex preforming and resin transfer moulding.