Feature
2019 Paris Air Show: Highlights
The 2019 Paris Air Show may have lacked the glamour of a new aircraft program announcement, but the composites industry represented is clearly gearing up for next-generation aerospace manufacturing.
WatchBig additive machines tackle large molds
In commercial aerocomposites fabrication, molds reign supreme, but they are expensive. Large-format additive manufacturing systems are poised to make production-ready molds quickly and affordably.
Read MoreAutomated, in-situ inspection a necessity for next-gen aerospace
Inline inspection technologies continue to evolve with the aim of providing faster and more accurate part inspection.
Read MoreFiber sizing, tow spreading and the quest for encapsulation
Fiber sizing is easily overlooked by composites fabricators, but it will be increasingly important to optimization of fiber performance.
Read MoreSpirit AeroSystems invests in qualification program with Toray prepreg
The world’s largest aerospace tier supplier seizes the opportunity to develop its own allowables for a carbon fiber prepreg, setting an important precedent.
Read MoreHP-RTM for serial production of cost-effective CFRP aerostructures
Merging automotive process and tooling with aerospace quality to meet increasing production rates.
Read MoreLarge, high-volume, infused composite structures on the aerospace horizon
Infused carbon fiber composite structures are not new, but they have never been built at the rates anticipated for next-generation, single-aisle aircraft. It is a daunting prospect — but a feasible one.
Read MoreTackling the aerospace supplier’s dilemma: Scalability
Automation and robotics can go a long way toward increasing capacity and growing a business dedicated to aerospace manufacturing. But Trinity Precision has learned that refining the indirect and unseen aspects of its operations can be just as valuable.
Read MoreMission critical: An additive manufacturing breakthrough in commercial aviation
The GE9X is the first commercial aircraft engine to reach production with significant additive content. The story of GE’s accomplishment and why it matters.
Read MoreThermoplastic composites: Poised to step forward
The evolving role of thermoplastic materials and processes and their future in next-generation commercial aircraft.
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