Research on CFRP sustainable and resource efficient production processes is DLR’s new approach within the Center of Lightweight-Production-Technology (ZLP) in Stade. It offers opportunities in doing projects by considering industrial requirements in terms of scenarios and scale. By testing and simulation of processes in a full scale dimension, effects can be explored which otherwise could have shown up at later utilization of technology. Hence, the complete process chain could be examined before the industrial realization.
The department of Composite Process Technologies takes part in the ZLP. It provides the scientific backbone of the center in Stade. By doing fundamental research work in the field of advanced fiber placement, automated RTM processes and autoclave technology, production technologies will be developed and tested for application. An interdisciplinary approach between manufacturing engineering, design specialists and machine manufacturers will help to build up competences in the assessment of production chains. The major aim is to find the optimum in production technologies with respect to efficiency, energy and resource consumption, quality and cost and to give a feedback to design, as well as to materials and processes.
"For a sustainable production"
Competences
The core competences of the department reflect the application of large scale research facilities:
As CFRP will become more and more important, research has to provide solutions for production, otherwise the breakthrough of this material could not be guaranteed. By obeying needs from various end users, the composite process technologies enhance the interdisciplinary approach to introduce CFRP for a broader application.