Handling of Cured FRP Components

Requirements for Vacuum Technology

Removal of cured CFRP components

• The cured components, which are often still hot, must be gripped securely during removal from the RTM mold without leaving any residue
• Handling during removal of the cut-out parts (preforms) and layers
• Process-safe handling of the blanks
• Handling of possibly several layers or unstable preforms

Temperature resistance

• High temperatures with thermoplastics require temperature-resistant grippers
• When handling hot workpieces, local cooling at the gripping point must be avoided in particular. Special needle grippers and vacuum cups are used to minimize the risk of excessive cooling. Contact area made of Teflon "non-stick" and thermal insulation additionally prevent local cooling down

Accuracy v. deposit, contamination Gripper

• Molten components lose their stability and are therefore difficult to handle. Special flat suction pads have a flat, long sealing lip and a support mounted in the suction pad
• High acceleration possible due to high holding forces
• High level of handling know-how prevents changes in material properties, e.g. due to damage or contamination