Prilep, Macedonia, January 2020– The Center for Composite Materials (CCM) at the University of Delaware has selected Composite Automation and Mikrosam to deliver advanced equipment for fabricating thermoplastic, thermoset and dry-fiber composites. This suite includes Mikrosam’s latest modular and upgradeable Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machine which will significantly increase CCM’s leadership in R&D projects with thermoplastic composites.

Mikrosam offers one of the most cost-competitive and proven AFP solutions for thermoplastic composites with many advancements for maximum productivity. Designed as an integrated, modular, and upgradeable AFP work-cell, the 8-axis robotic AFP machine is capable of automated and precise placement of thermoplastic fibers. The system uses a multi-material AFP head with bi-directional placement on open and closed 3D shapes and mandrel surfaces. Combined with an automatic head exchange system, customers can obtain new multi-tow AFP or ATL heads or additional equipment for future use on the same work cell.

Designed with flexibility and time-saving features, such as easy access to material spools, quick servicing of consumables and spare parts, and access to machine code for the integration of 3^rd party equipment, Mikrosam’s AFP heads are a premier tool for researchers in advanced composites.

Using thermoplastics – the next generation of composite materials – is becoming a priority in the aerospace industry for increasing production rates. Using a laser heating source, precise temperature and angle control, and a closed-loop process, Mikrosam’s AFP machines have proven results for in-situ consolidation of TPCs with better mechanical properties. Mikrosam’s extensive research and experience in development programs with many aerospace and automotive customers provide a fast-track to production with thermoplastic composites which are recyclable and more environmentally friendly.

“The market for automated layup of thermoplastic composites demands flexible equipment to ensure maximum utilization in exploring new techniques and applications. When combined with our sophisticated control for in-situ consolidation of thermoplastic composites, our AFP machines provide excellent solutions for research institutions.” – stated Dimitar Bogdanoski, Sales Manager at Mikrosam DOO.

The complete automation of the AFP machine is powered by MikroPlace – a CATIA-compatible solution for analysis and simulation of composite parts – and QCS (Quality Control System) which offers continuous improvement via data monitoring and traceability

About Composite Automation LLC

Composite Automation is a Manufacturer’s Representative organization that is exclusively focused on the composites manufacturing market. We represent ten different companies that are from the US and Europe in North America. Our principles provide among the most innovative and disruptive technologies in their respective fields that enable our mutual clients to improve their profitability. See our website at www.compositeautomation.com for more information.