Autoclave upgrades composites capabilities
High-temperature high-pressure 5 x 2m autoclave enhances quality even on intricate and complex parts.
Motorsport engineering specialist BERU F1 Systems has opened a new composites facility that will offer motorsport and aerospace companies a high-temperature high-pressure 5 x 2m autoclave to develop advanced, complex and high quality prototype and production composite components.
The 350C autoclave, believed to be one of only a handful in the UK, is ideally suited for developing temperature resistant and low toxicity composites, and the 13.8bar pressure enhances quality even on intricate and complex parts.
"Through our wire in composite (WiC) aerospace development programmes and our Factor 001 composite bicycle, we are looking at sophisticated materials that can survive extended periods in high temperatures, together with a separate requirement for exceptional quality", says Managing Director John Bailey.
"Our new autoclave will help us develop lightweight and durable solutions to increase reliability, product quality or reduce weight".
Installed in BERU F1 Systems' newly constructed Technical Centre in Diss Norfolk, the autoclave is accompanied by a new preparation area with automatic cutting table and walk-in freezer for storing composites.
With a significant increase in ongoing composite work, for both wiring looms and its WiC technology, the firm will also retain its existing 2 x 1m autoclave.
The larger sise autoclave will allow BERU F1 Systems to manufacture larger units, such as airboxes, aero and chassis tubs.
"Our F1 wiring harnesses are increasing in complexity, requiring more integration with structural parts, ECUs and junction boxes", continues Bailey.
"As usage grows, we must develop derivatives that will allow composites to function for extended periods, often in high temperature or harsh environmental conditions".
BERU F1 Systems already supplies high quality composite components to motorsport and OE road programmes.
With strong design and engineering expertise in-house, the firm has been able to offer improved weight and performance characteristics, even over existing carbon material products.
"Our motorsport heritage drives us to develop the lightest, most durable solution", concludes Bailey.
"We have been able to save weight and cost on existing composite parts by applying our design principles".
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