Industrial perforation of lightweight materials

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project was that, through new techniques in drilling and water-jet cutting, develop cost-effective methods for perforation of difficult-to-machine hybrid lightweight materials (carbon fiber composite-metal) together with several actors in the supply chain from different industries: aeronautics, aerospace, and engineering. The team did, even though the project was stopped ahead of schedule, implement waterjet attempt of a full-size composite component in the space industry, as well as verify a new system for robotic waterjet cutting in 3D of composite.

Expected results and effects

Due to the fact that the project had to be cancelled early, a lack of time and resources to carry out the envisaged practical tests and simulation of perforation methods to achieve impacts in terms of cost reduction and shorter lead times for perforation of lightweight materials. Positive effects of the project are to a constellation of different players created with an increased knowledge of both players and possible new technologies (water-jet cutting, drilling). This may lead to the desired effects faster than before, for example in the form of future collaborative projects.

Planned approach and implementation

The project started with 5 technical work packages as well as project management. While the project was in progress, works with method development and preliminary testing was carried out by the individual actors. The joint seminar after 8 months that was intended to present the results and plan for continued implementation had to postponed when one of the key participants unfortunately had to drop out of the project. A new project plan with a reduced scope and budget was brought forward but this plan deviated unfortunately too much from the original plan to be acceptable by the grant agency.