EADS Socata hopes to revolutionize its manufacturing processes through the use of new advanced composites manufacturing techniques that could provide it lighter parts, for less money, built in less time. In partnership with other private-sector entities it would provide 32 percent toward a EU$9.3 million FUSCOMP, short for fuselage composite, program for the manufacture of a composite fuselage demonstrator based on the turboprop-single TBM 850 fuselage design but developed through vacuum infusion. The research-and-design-focused program is based on using vacuum pressure to inject liquid resin into dry fiber in a closed mold — as opposed to working with pre-impregnated fiber materials cured in an autoclave. The new manufacturing method will allow for use of new materials and reduced production cycles, materials and manufacturing costs. The program’s approval this week by the French Government paves the way for backing by government and local funding, which would make up the remaining 68 percent of the program’s cost.
Socata Tries Hand At Composites
Key Takeaways:
- EADS Socata is launching the EU$9.3 million FUSCOMP program to develop advanced composite manufacturing techniques, focusing on vacuum infusion for lighter parts, reduced costs, and faster production times.
- This new method involves injecting liquid resin into dry fiber in a closed mold, differing from traditional pre-impregnated fiber cured in an autoclave, and allows for new materials and improved efficiency.
- The program, based on the TBM 850 fuselage design for a composite demonstrator, is funded by Socata (32%) in partnership with other private entities, with the remaining 68% coming from French government and local backing.
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