From the development of materials through to the development of full-scale structural components
In the design and construction of CMC structures (ceramic matrix composite), the Institute of Structures and Design not only sets the standard in the area of materials development but also applies this expertise to the development of components made of ceramic matrix composites. Using the Liquid Silicon Infiltration process (LSI) developed at DLR, it is possible to produce ceramic matrix composites on-site on an industrial scale quickly and economically. The Institute has become a leading player internationally in this field thanks to this process. This is reflected by the numerous components developed in cooperation with industry that have now been turned into marketable products. With this technology, the Institute is represented in all relevant space projects in Germany and across Europe, and is also involved with series-production components used in aviation and the transport sector.
CMC Engineering
The Institute's secret to success lies above all in the cooperation between the various development fields. The complete engineering chain and the associated expertise with it guarantee the successful implementation of even the most ambitious CMC components.
This development area covers:
Materials development
Process development
Construction method development
Design and dimensioning
Production of prototype components in their original size
Quality assurance and component qualification
Alongside the team's specialist expertise, the infrastructure available to them also makes a difference. Tailored CAD and FEA systems for evaluating the structures in real applications, as well as furnaces of various different sizes and temperature ranges for pyrolysis and siliconisation processes, make it possible to develop components using optimised processes. The latest quality assurance testing equipment, such as CT and air ultrasonic systems, as well as scanning electron microscopes with integrated energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, guarantee that the development projects are carried out in accordance with the highest technological standards.
