Composites technology specialist Cygnet Texkimp (Cheshire, UK) will spotlight latest updates in its range of fibre handling and processing technologies for advanced materials and high-performance parts.
Following its shortlisting in this year’s JEC Innovation Awards, the company will showcase the ART (Automated Rapid Tape) high-rate fibre deposition technology that it originally developed with supercar manufacturer McLaren Automotive to manufacture high-performance, ultra-lightweight composite parts, sustainably, at rate and with minimal scrap. An exclusive licensing agreement between the two companies means that Cygnet Texkimp is now marketing the solution to the aerospace, space and defence industries to manufacture near net-shape preforms. The technology will also feature in the show’s Innovation Planets area.
Other solutions highlighted by Cygnet Texkimp include its specialist 3D weaving creel, which was developed to support 3D weaving processes most commonly used by the aerospace industry to create strong and lightweight carbon fibre reinforced composite parts. 3D weaving involves weaving thousands of individual fibre tows into complex three-dimensional forms that offer considerable structural integrity. Cygnet Texkimp’s 3D weaving creels incorporate thousands of bobbins of carbon fibre which are carefully unwound and fed into the 3D weaving loom in a way that is consistent and accurate.
The company will also unveil its high-precision automated trailer-loading AGV system, which is designed to improve traceability and logistics efficiency in composites manufacturing. The system allows manufacturers to load and unload large packages of fibre safely and efficiently to reduce manual handling and improve processing speeds. It is engineered to maximise space utilisation, minimise shipping costs, improve safety and overcome resource gaps. Using laser navigation and 3D camera capability, it can sequence loading patterns and position product packages accurately to improve efficiency in loading and unloading operations. With options for barcode/RFID scanning, weighing and labelling, it also enables warehouse management and traceability initiatives for Factory of the Future compliance.
Visit Cygnet Texkimp at Booth L85 in Hall 5.