Prepreg Autoclave Technology

For very light and extremely powerful components.

The fibre orientation gives the components the desired strength and rigidity. The cured plastic matrix holds the fibres together in the finished component and leads to optimum force transmission from fibre to fibre. This results in a consistently high material quality and perfect technical properties.

The strengths of prepreg autoclave technology:

Perfectly definable fibre placement
Ideal fibre content
Low pore content
High surface quality
High temperature resistance

“Prepreg” stands for “preimpregnated fibres”. Prepreg consists of continuous fibres and a not-yet-completely-hardened, usually thermoset plastic matrix. The fibres can be in the form of a unidirectional layer, fabric or scrim.

Prepregs are cut precisely on the cutter and inserted (laminated) into a mould layer by layer in the desired sequence and orientation until the desired layer structure is created. The components are given the desired properties such as elasticity or stiffness by selecting the appropriate fibre orientation.

The coated mould is then vacuum-packed in a temperature-resistant film bag and cured in digitally controlled autoclaves under pressure and heat. Depending on the material and product, this takes 4-7 hours. The component is then cooled in a controlled manner, removed from the mould and processed further.

The Connova Group has the expertise and resources for prepreg autoclave technology:

Temperature-resistant and precise moulds and tools
Controlled deep-freeze cells for the safe storage of uncured prepregs
Computer-controlled autoclaves for components up to 4 metres in length
CNC cutting room for precise and efficient cutting
Clean and climate-controlled laminating rooms to prevent external contamination

Prepreg autoclave technology is used:

in aerospace: primary structures, solar panels, instrument carriers
in aviation: fuselage and wing structures, interior fittings, panelling, rotor blades
in racing: chassis, wheel suspension, aerodynamic structures, panelling
in boatbuilding: masts, hull structures of high-performance ships- in mechanical engineering: robot arms, high-speed machine parts, thermostable machine discs
in medical technology: X-ray transparent couches, prostheses (walking aids, outside the body)
in measurement technology: thermostable instrument carriers, optical benches

Further competences

Winding technology

For rotationally symmetrical components – high mechanical properties, economical and scalable.