13.04.2021
Addictive Tooling
Additive Manufacturing of Innovative Tooling for the Production of Intelligent Fiber Composite Components
Initially, the existing CAD model was adapted and divided into four segments to allow for demolding after the adhesive cured. Evaluating optimization potential revealed the elimination of the furnace by implementing conformal heating elements. This was implemented, and the prototypes were additively manufactured from aluminum. Machining of the functional surfaces using a 5-axis milling system ensured an optimal fit. Subsequently, tests were conducted under real-world conditions, and fiber composite components were produced. This confirmed the functionality of the segmented tool shells.
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FOTEC Forschungs- und Technologietransfer GmbH
Background
The negative molds for manufacturing fiber-reinforced composite components are generally not segmented and offer no additional functionality beyond shaping during infiltration and curing in the manufacturing process. Heating supports the curing of the necessary adhesive, which is conventionally achieved using an oven.
Objectives
- Exploiting the potential of geometric freedom in additive manufacturing through the integration of conformal heating elements
- Successful field testing under real-world conditions
- Cost and time savings in the manufacturing process
Results
- Verified functionality of a conformally temperature-controlled internal aluminum mold for fiber-reinforced composite components
- Elimination of external heating during component manufacturing (cost reduction)
- Successful functional integration into mold shell segments (not conventionally feasible)
- Confirmation of suitability for use in series production