Hot press
The German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) Center for Lightweight-Production-Technology (ZLP) in Augsburg has a thermoplastic cell (Thermoplastzelle; TPZ) for investigating the production of high quantities of thermoplastic components. Together with a temperature-resistant robot on a linear axis, the hot press forms the centrepiece of the facility.
Rapid forming in large volumes
The hot press at the DLR Institute of Structures and Design in Augsburg enables the rapid forming and consolidation of complex components. Fast cycle times for fibre-reinforced thermoplastics are particularly important for the automotive industry. When combined with a heating panel, the hot press makes it possible to achieve cycle times of up to 95 seconds based on the forming of organic sheet metal.
The facility is equipped with two heatable plates that can reach a maximum temperature of 450 degrees Celsius. The maximum clamping force is 4400 kilonewtons. The working surface offers space for components with dimensions of up to 1800 by 1200 millimetres. In addition to forming by pressing, the system can also be used to consolidate plates under pressure. An integrated cooling system enables the facility to cool down quickly.