Enabling future volume production of composites in Sweden

Purpose and goal

A key part of this prestudy has been to investigate, and understand, the technical and business processes and mechanisms that enable the conditions for producing composites that meet the automotive industry´s needs regarding volume, quality and cost-effectiveness. This has been done by mapping the present situation in the Swedish composite industry (focusing on processes for structural composites) and investigating successful efforts internationally. The long term goal is for Sweden to establish a leading position within rational and efficient production of composites.

Expected results and effects

There is a high level of competence in all areas within composites in Sweden, but at the moment there is a lack of coordination, structure and the necessary conditions for small businesses to establish themselves in the field and grow. A national effort on the Swedish composite industry with focus on automation and volume production is recommended. Examples of areas that require more targeted efforts are: Methods for quality control; Simulation methodologies for the entire chain from design to end product; Crash simulations; Systems for efficient recycling and netshape production.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was coordinated by Swerea SICOMP, with the support by Swerea IVF and Innovatum, as well as support and management of the participating industrial partners: Inxide, Volvo Cars, NEVS, Composite Design, SSAC and FKG. First a study was conducted to clarify the current situation in Sweden and identify successful efforts in other countries. An inventory of the needs in the complete value chain was then performed. An open workshop with 30 participants from industry and academia was organized, and a survey was made and used as a basis for discussions with 15 companies in the industry.