Modular, upgradeable, automated composites manufacturing equipment

Mikrosam (Prilep, Macedonia) is a producer of equipment and automation for several composites manufacturing processes, including: filament winding automation, automated fiber placement (AFP) and automated tape laying (ATL), and in-house modular prepreg slitting systems. With a strong focus on innovation and customization, the company provides customized solutions to meet the needs of its clients, aiming to enhance productivity and reduce production costs.

Mikrosam produces automated lines for composite pressure vessels and high-value products. These lines ensure a lower total cost of ownership, high availability and productivity, with increased throughput and reduced cost per part:

• Multi-spindle high-performance automation
• Patented automatic cut and restart system, exchangeable resin bath
• TCON: Top-level automation and manufacturing historian with SCADA integration.

Mikrosam also introduces a gantry-based multi-axis handling system for composite parts. Gantry handling is crucial in multi-spindle winding, especially for handling tanks and parts exceeding 1,500 L, where robotic handling cannot be used. It is ideal for heavy loads, long travel distances or small workspaces.

Mikrosam further highlights its AFP and ATL solutions, designed for flexibility, ease of use and scale, which enable users to start with an initial setup that can support business growth. Solutions include multi-material AFP and ATL heads, technology with a head exchange system and the capability for thermoplastics.

Mikrosam offers scalable machines for slitting composite prepregs to different widths and form factors, combined with an inspection system for traceability and detecting errors. The return on investment (ROI) with Mikrosam’s slitting machines is said to be 12 to 18 months. Further improvements and modularity of the system make it well suited for the growing use of slit prepregs.

The company’s customized solution for in-house towpreg production is said to reduce the total production cost, resolve many logistics-related questions and provide higher process and material quality control. The company says that users can expect accurate calibration of towpreg resin content, cost savings and the ability to produce a range of towpreg widths.