TAPAS

TAPAS: Process development of reduced cycle time by direct injection of polymer on reinforcement for a composite part with complex geometry

The TAPAS project worked on direct processes and particularly in low pressure injection in closed mold types such as Resin Transfer Molding (RTM TP, C-RTM TP). The project validated the feasibility of a new process for manufacturing thermoplastic composite parts in a non-reactive way. This feasibility has been made possible by the development of new high-flow thermoplastic polymers, combined with fibrous reinforcements with high permeability. The attainment of the required final performance necessitated the development of materials (specific polymers, compatibility between formulated polymers and fibrous reinforcements, permeability/drapability/mechanical wear) and conditions of implementation (experimental, simulation/modeling).

A 3D functional part (demonstrator) was made in PA66/carbon using a specific device (a mold, with a vertical press). These results were presented at various congresses (national and international) and several scientific articles (published and in the process of being published). These composites have many industrial applications: Automotive, trucks and buses, aeronautics, sport and leisure… In the wake of the TAPAS project, a new project was recently been put into place: the INCREASE project.

LABELED BY: 

AXELERA: www.axelera.org
MOVEO: www.pole-moveo.org
EMC2: www.pole-emc2.fr