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Laser Technology Connecting Large-Volume Aircraft Structures Based on CFRP

Source: Fraunhofer IWS | Translated by AI 4 min Reading Time

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Fraunhofer IWS Dresden

Fraunhofer IWS has developed CONTIjoin, a process suitable for the continuous processing of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic high-performance laminates. This aims to make the production of future commercial aircraft faster, more environmentally friendly, and more competitive.

As part of the "Large Passenger Aircraft" (LPA) framework program, Fraunhofer IWS successfully demonstrated for the first time worldwide the welding of long seam joints on large-volume thermoplastic aircraft fiber composite structures using a CO2 laser beam source within the MFFD project.(Image: Clean Aviation)
As part of the "Large Passenger Aircraft" (LPA) framework program, Fraunhofer IWS successfully demonstrated for the first time worldwide the welding of long seam joints on large-volume thermoplastic aircraft fiber composite structures using a CO2 laser beam source within the MFFD project.
(Image: Clean Aviation)

Thermosetting polymer matrices have so far played a dominant role in the design and production of modern aircraft structures made of fiber-reinforced composites. The use of fasteners or adhesive systems to join these parts is unavoidable, which increases the overall weight of the aircraft and imposes additional requirements for surface preparation. In contrast, thermoplastic matrices enable joining and forming processes: the polymers can be softened and melted, making welding possible.

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