EMOTION - Enhanced Mould for Thermoplastic Fuselage

The aim of this project is the development of an innovative mould that makes the large-scale production of thermoplastic hull skins significantly more efficient. The project pursues two central approaches:

On the one hand, a process with a suitable mould for consolidation in the autoclave is being developed - including automated depositing of the materials, precise assembly and efficient transport. On the other hand, another mould is being developed that can also be used outside the autoclave, for example for in-situ consolidation. This has extended functions for targeted heating and cooling.

The processing of thermoplastics at temperatures of around 400 °C places high demands - for example due to high thermal expansion and the necessary temperature resistance of seals and cables. At the same time, however, it opens up great potential: shorter cycle times, lower energy consumption - and therefore increased competitiveness.