Expert Group: Thermoplastics Processing

The production of functionally integrative lightweight structures in multi-material design requires the provision of efficient resource-saving process chains. With its research activities, the Thermoplastics Processes Group of the Institute of Lightweight Structures and Plastics Technology (ILK) pursues an integrated approach along the entire value chain.

The process chain begins with the development, production and characterization of novel thermoplastic semifinished products with adapted property profiles: compounds, films, tapes, organosheets, etc. Subsequently, new semifinished preforming technologies are developed, ranging from near-net-shape depositing of thermoplastic tapes to braiding of complex-shaped hollow structures. At the end of the process chain is the development of efficient manufacturing processes in injection molding, compression molding, pultrusion and extrusion as well as generative manufacturing. For their research, the ILK scientists have access to a unique machine park in the Process Development Center (PEZ), which allows fully automated process sequences to be set up and tested under near-series conditions.

The activities of the Thermoplastics Processes Group are based on many years of extensive know-how in the development of innovative mould, automation and process technology for the efficient production of hybrid thermoplastic structures. Process development is supported by the use of end-to-end process simulation.