automated preforming lines
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- Automated preforming lines
composites preforming: from raw material to 3D net shape preform
At PINETTE PEI, we are pioneers in the development of preforming technologies for the industrial processing of composite materials. Thanks to our innovations, we provide complete, customized solutions to meet the specific needs of our customers in a wide range of industrial sectors.
To find out more about our state-of-the-art composite preforming solutions, we invite you to consult our detailed case studies. They will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the innovative processes we employ, as well as the specific benefits of our technologies. Discover how we can turn your production challenges into tangible successes.
Injection unit
ECS'PRESS press equipped for process
2D contact heating press
3D forming press
Offcut evacuation
Transfer robot on 7th axis
Automatic cutting station
Buffer storage
Robot transfer and placement
Kit storage
Organosheet loading
Offcut evacuation
Unidirectional belt and fabric cutting tables
netshape end piece
Kit assembly table
Storage of raw materials
Unloading table
Integrated control
Multi-process automated line: 2D and 3D preforming – Stamping – C-RTM
Benefits
- High precision and repeatability: Our systems guarantee precise manufacturing with excellent repeatability, essential for large-scale production requiring impeccable consistency of composite parts.
- Multi-material flexibility: Our preforming platforms are capable of handling a variety of materials, including glass fibers, carbon fibers, natural fibers, as well as dry or prepreg materials. This capability makes them highly adaptable to meet diverse project requirements.
- Multi-process integration: PINETTE PEI preforming integrates various processes such as automated fiber placement, robotized cutting and kitting, as well as hot and cold forming. This integration of multiple processes optimizes cycle times and increases overall manufacturing efficiency.
- Material optimization : We design our systems to maximize the use of materials, thus reducing waste and production costs. The net-shape design of our preforms ensures that finished parts meet exact specifications without the need for extensive reworking.
- Advanced automation: Advanced automation in our preforming systems reduces the need for manual intervention, improving production speed and accuracy. Our solutions integrate workflow management, traceability, and control and recording of process parameters, ensuring consistent quality and long-term reliability.
Why choose PINETTE PEI?
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Proven technical expertise PINETTE PEI has a long history of innovation in the design of preform solutions for the composites industry. Its technical expertise enables advanced technologies to be efficiently integrated into composite manufacturing processes.
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Customization capabilities PINETTE PEI ‘s ability to develop tailor-made solutions to meet the specific requirements of each customer makes it a preferred partner for complex projects requiring high precision and process adaptability.
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Continuous innovation We constantly invest in research and development to stay at the cutting edge of technology and offer our customers innovative, competitive solutions.
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Strategic collaborations By collaborating with industry leaders such as Teijin and Porsche, PINETTE PEI demonstrates its ability to work within international consortia, adding value through its technical expertise and innovative approach.
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State-of-the-art infrastructure The PINETTE PEI facilities are equipped with the most advanced technology for the development, testing and production of composite preforming systems, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the solutions supplied.
Industries
Range of applications
Multi-process, multi-material preforms
PFRC preform
Case study: Fast Form
A Multi-Process Automated Preforming Platform
This multi-process preforming platform atIRT M2P is designed to meet the high demands of modern industry in terms of performance, flexibility and efficiency, while ensuring high-quality custom preforms.
Technical data
Platform overview
- Automation
- Robotics
- Workflow management
- Traceability
- Monitoring and recording of process parameters
- Preheating system
- Robotic loader
- Temperatures up to 200°C for thermoplastic or thermoset binders
- Forming Press
- Hot/cold preforming
- Closing force from 30 to 300T
- Maximum Daylight 3000 mm
- Platens dimensions: 4000 mm x 2500 mm
- Cutting
- 3D cutting
- Various shapes up to 3 m²
- Cutting of all types of textiles
- Oscillating pneumatic blade on robotized system
Materials
- Glass, carbon and/or natural fibers
- Dry or prepreg materials
- Continuous or chopped fibers
- Thermoset or thermoplastic binder
Hybrid preform
- Single or multi-material preform
- Single or multi-process preform
- Up to 3 sq.m.
- Net shape
Process characteristics
- Layering
- Up to 5 sq.m.
- Automatic multi-material stacking
- Up to 24 folds
- Automated Fiber Placement (AFP)
- ¼” to 1 ½” single fiber
- Heating system: infrared lamp/laser
- Projection of Chopped Fibers
- 10 to 50 mm fibers
- Thermoset/thermoplastic binders
- Production rate of 120 kg/hour
Platform performance
- Cycle time
- Production capacity of a complex hybrid preform in a single cycle (30 units per hour)
- Material performance
- Maximum optimization for substantial savings on raw materials
- Mechanical resistance
- Processes guarantee preforms with excellent structural integrity
Case study: Recognized Excellence in Preforming
Automated Preforming Process for Complex CFRP Parts
Context
Teijin Automotive Technologies France, in collaboration with renowned partners such as Porsche AG, Airborne, and PINETTE PEI, has developed an automated manufacturing process for composite preforms designed to maximize performance and minimize material use. The partnership is focused on the high-speed production of complex CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) parts for the automotive and road transport industries.
International recognition
This innovative project has been selected as one of the finalists for the JEC Innovation Awards, underlining its radical approach to the processing of composite materials. This distinction highlights the innovative approach and technological advances brought about by this partnership, reaffirming their position as leaders in the composites industry.
Process description
The process involves several critical steps, including precise cutting of patches, nesting optimization, and automated layer assembly with spot welding to stabilize 2D preforms. Each layer is meticulously scanned to ensure accurate positioning to a tolerance of 0.5 mm. The heat-activated stack is consolidated before being transferred to the forming press.
Benefits
- Automated assembly: Allows the assembly of 2D patches, which are then formed in 3D and cut.
- High-precision positioning: thanks to high-resolution vision systems that monitor every layer.
- Fast, reliable process: Full automation guarantees repeatability and optimum preform quality.
- Rigorous quality control: a computerized system scans every layer to ensure consistent quality.
- Process flexibility: Compatible with all types of fiber, the process is adaptable to a variety of production requirements.