Complete process simulation of composite manufacturing

Important results from the project

The project aim has been to develop methodology for linking together simulations of the different steps in the chain of composite manufacturing processes. The project has shown that composite process simulations can be improved by considering the effects of the different processing steps in the subsequent steps. The project has also shown how this can be performed efficiently by identification and evaluation of the most important steps and mechanisms with respect to the final manufacturing result.

Expected long term effects

The project has improved the possibilities of efficiently predicting the composite manufacturing process. This reduces development lead times and components can be manufactured with higher accuracy. The generic knowledge obtained in the project will be spread to other sectors like the automotive and the wind power industry through Swerea SICOMP. The project has also made the research group more attractive to future research programs. As an example, GKN and Swerea SICOMP will collaborate in ENOVAL (FP7) in the area of composite process simulations.

Approach and implementation

The project has been performed in cooperation between GKN Aerospace and Swerea SICOMP. The development of simulation methods and the characterization of materials and processes have been performed by Swerea SICOMP. The project has been managed by GKN, who also has defined the requirements and the manufacturing processes. GKN has also manufactured components for verification of the simulation methods. The technical competence of both companies has been used to run the project as efficiently as possible.