Unwind3D, based in Arsago Seprio, Italy, has developed a proprietary tailored fibre placement (TFP) moulding cell technology which brings new possibilities for tailoring near net-shape multilayer fabric preforms into 3D composite parts.

The development marks a significant step forward in expanding the functional scope of TFP by introducing a dedicated high-performance moulding solution for thermoplastic and thermoset matrices.

The bespoke moulding cell is designed to handle the challenges of thermoplastic composite forming, from flat TFP preforms to robust 3D parts. Unlike traditional solutions, TFP thermoplastics preforms tend to decrease in volume as the matrix melts, leading to problems in pressure management, heat distribution and tooling design.

Unwind3D has resolved these issues and is producing mid-volume thermoplastic composite parts with excellent structural quality and dimensional accuracy. Its moulding cells have already demonstrated industrial performance, running nine hours a day for ten consecutive months in a customer production environment

 The fully automated production cells minimise labour and increase repeatability and smart pressure and power management reduce operational costs without compromising performance.

Employing dual heating technology – induction and conduction – ensures fast and uniform heating for optimal part consolidation and shorter cycle times. Custom-developed control software ensures intuitive operation, the fine-tuning of process parameters and energy optimisation, while adaptive pressure control also lowers energy use and extends tool life, improving part integrity and reducing voids.

www.unwind3d.com