BMW Ups Its Stake in Composites

BMW continues its exploration of large composite parts for lightweight automotive structures. It just installed a 3600-metric-ton model of the new v-duo vertical v-duo two-platen injection press from Engel Austria (U.S. office in York, Pa.), a smaller version of which was shown at K 2013 in Dusseldorf (see our January show report). The machine was delivered to BMW’s plant in Landshut, Germany, where it will be used to mold large structural elements from fiber composites using the HP-RTM (high-pressure RTM) process. This process injects liquid reactive components for thermosets (epoxy or polyurethane) or thermoplastics (caprolactam for in-situ polymerization into nylon 6) over a layup of dry reinforcing mats or fabrics. BMW plans to use the Engel press for thermoset composites, but would not specify the resin system.

 

The press has two slide tables to remove finished parts and insert fiber reinforcements. Engel notes that the machine has a much smaller weight, footprint, and height than typical vertical compression presses. The clamp unit is accessible from all four sides instead of just two. The press uses ecodrive servo-driven hydraulic pumps for energy efficiency, without any hydraulic accumulators.