Elite composite and Marstrom Composite as possible suppliers of composite articles for Saab

Purpose and goal

The goal of the project was to strengthen Swedish SMEs such as Elitkomposit and Marstrom Composite as possible subcontractors, especially to the Swedish aviation industry. The project has given them a unique opportunity to demonstrate their ability to manufacture advanced products to Saab, thus establishing themselves as possible subcontractors to the Swedish and also international aviation industry. The project has made Marstrom and Elitkomposit aware about various research programs, and both have expressed their wish to participate in future suitable project applications.

Expected results and effects

Both Elitkomposit and Marstrom Composite are optimistic and think that the production of the wing structure with an annual rate and technical requirements specified are fully possible. The quality and repeatability achieved are better than expected. With further development of process parameters and preforming technology, both production rate and quality can be improved. All the results are reported to Saab separately for both companies. The project has demonstrated their ability to be a potential subcontractor to the aviation industry and also a partner in future projects.

Planned approach and implementation

Elitkomposit and Marstrom perform manufacturing attempts of a U-shaped wing structure according to the specifications of Saab. The manufacturing attempts, it is about learning the material, trying out different lay-ups and varying different process parameters such as preforming and degree of pre-consolidation. Two details from each manufacturer are evaluated by Compraser Labs / SICOMP through visual inspection, ultrasonic- and 3D-scanning. Areas with deviations are marked for cutting and further analysis with microscope.