2009 is about to come to a close. As you look forward to the new year, take a look at some of the last composites products of the aught.
Synergy Composites is hoping a new autoclave system will bring some of its own synergy to manufacture advanced composite components. The autoclave can achieve a maximum temperature of 450 degrees Celsius and is capable of very high pressures (300 PSi). The system has been specifically purchased to provide research and development plus production capability. The company has also invested in an aerospace specified class 7 cleanroom and large (3m long x 1.2m wide x 1m high) coordinate measuring machine.
ContiTech Vibration Control collaborates with BASF and BMW to create the first transmission cross beam for the BMW Gran Turismo 550i
Composites are now on their way to cross beams, as ContiTech Vibration Control collaborates with BASF and BMW to create the first transmission cross beam made of plastic polyamide for use in the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo 550i. The transmission cross beam is the direct link to the engine-transmission mount, and contributes to the overall rigidity of the vehicle and supports the forces and torque of the engine-transmission unit. ContiTech produces the component from strong polyamide in an injection molding process, which they say results in a 50 percent weight savings over aluminum.
Homeland security, government and military agencies’ applications need protection too, and PPG Industries is filling that void with Mil-Tough inorganic composite binder panels. These precast, fiber glass-reinforced ICB panels enhance blast and ballistics resistance in thinner, lighter forms with traditional steel-reinforced concrete systems. The panels can be custom manufactured based on the customer-defined threat level, and they can be incorporated into either modular systems for rapid force protection or permanent structures. Modular designs provide an interconnecting infrastructure to support use in multi- and single-level buildings as well as freestanding perimeter wall system.
