Review: "Tape Laying Machines – Problem Solvers for Many Challenges"

CU Members in Dialogue

At the monthly "Jour Fixe" of the CU West Cluster of Composites United e. V. (CU), companies and institutions present their technologies or projects on a current topic. At the Jour Fixe "Tape Laying Machines – Problem Solvers for Many Challenges" on January 20, 2025, 35 CU members and guests participated. Dr. Jens Schlimbach from the Leibniz Institute for Composite Materials (IVW) introduced the topic and moderated the subsequent discussion.

"Load-bearing capacity plays a central role in many applications and components. Tape laying machines enable targeted reinforcement, ensuring that components meet requirements while being more cost-efficient," said Dr. Heinz Kolz, Managing Director of CU West, in his opening remarks.

As part of the 29th Jour Fixe, the following companies and institutions presented their contributions to the topic:

• AFPT GmbH
• Automation Steeg & Hoffmeyer GmbH (ASH)
• Conbility GmbH
• Leibniz-Institut für Verbundwerkstoffe (IVW)

Interested in the speakers' presentations? Find the CU press release here:
🔗 CU Press Release

Introduction and Discussion: Tape Laying Technology

The Leibniz Institute for Composite Materials (IVW) conducts research along the entire value chain, from material development to design and manufacturability. IVW offers its expertise across this value chain.

Key Discussion Points:

• Without standardized tapes, broad application development will be limited.
• Are there potential applications for tapes with rigid edges on both sides? This question remained unanswered during the discussion.
• Each heating source has advantages and disadvantages. Customers must decide between gas heating or laser-based heating.
• Laser heating offers speed, flexibility, and precision, but comes with higher initial investment costs, though prices are declining.
• A strategic choice of heating source is crucial for optimizing applications.

Presentations from the event are available for members on Carbon Connected:
🔗 Carbon Connected

For inquiries regarding this event series, please contact:
📧 Dr. Heinz Kolz, Managing Director CU West – heinz.kolz@composites-united.com