Adapa reconfigurable mold technology replaces one-off fabrication

Adapa A/S (Aalborg, Denmark) highlights its adaptive mold technology meant to replace one-off molds and enable manufacturing companies to produce low-repetition, curved panels faster, more affordably and more sustainably. The adaptive molds can be used with various composite materials and processes such as hand lamination and vacuum infusion of prepregging materials, including fiberglass, carbon fiber, prepreg, composite preforms and even plywood.

Not limited to hand lamination, this reconfigurable mold also excels in thermoforming thermoplastic such as structural foam cores commonly used in industries such as aerospace, wind energy, marine and construction. Additionally, the system’s reconfigurable table handles solid surfaces such as Corian, Krion and Hi-Macs, which are frequently used as façade panels in construction. Adapa’s adaptive mold technology extends its versatility to the thermoforming of glass and the glazing process of PC/PMMA, which are popular in automotive and architecture sectors.

Recently, Adapa launched a project that brings to market an adaptive mold with the highest amount of actuators the company has yet to assemble, ensuring high precision and efficiency. Measuring 8.2 m in length and 5 m in width, the mold can achieve a curvature radius as tight as 400 mm. It has also been developed to handle complex curves rapidly, specifically designed with composite products in mind (see the mold in action here).

Adapa A/S says its reconfigurable mold reduces costs and delivery times while minimizing waste.