FPP technology enables industrial reinforcement of composite tanks

Cevotec (Munich, Germany), the automation specialist for fiber patch placement (FPP), showcases its next generation of Samba Pro layup systems.

The Samba Pro PV-1 system is spotlighted as the first FPP layup system dedicated to the industrial reinforcement of composite tanks, according to the company. By applying dome reinforcements and optimized filament winding, pressure vessel OEMs can save 15% of fiber material and related costs while achieving equivalent mechanical properties. The Samba Pro PV-1 system enables dome reinforcements on composite tanks at an industrial scale with optimal layup quality, in a fully automated process.

Cevotec validated the dome reinforcement solution in an industry project together with Roth Composite Machinery, Cikoni and an undisclosed tank manufacturer. The Cevotec team is exhibiting a cutout of one of the project vessels, featuring a view of the first reinforcement layer. Cevotec technical expert Dr. Dimitrios Sikoutris is presenting the project results, the technical background and the industrial application in the conference presentation entitled, “Composite tanks innovation: 15% weight reduction by using dome reinforcements in an industrial process,” on Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 1:30 – 2:25 p.m. Visitors can also book meetings for a live estimation of the savings potential for their particular vessels.

Catering to high-performance composite aerostructures, Cevotec also introduces FPP layup features for multi-material components. Custom functionalities, like the post-placement push, push and hold, and accentuated 3D placement, facilitate the precise placement of difficult-to-handle materials on complex shapes, which enable a direct 3D layup with precise fiber orientation. Given FPP’s broad range of processable materials and layup features, it is ideal when AFP layup systems reach their limits in terms of geometric complexity, material handling or laminate requirements, says the company.

The Cevotec team, including co-founder and CEO Thorsten Gröne, Dr. Dimitrios Sikoutris, sales manager Anil Mertal and marketing manager Susanne Häckel, are present all three show days at the booth, next to their partner American GFM.