On January 17, Solvay Double Diaphragm Forming (DDF, Double Diaphragm Forming) demonstration production line was officially completed in Heanor, UK. This demonstration line adopts Solvay's rapid curing technology. It takes only 3 minutes from the raw material entering the production line to the completion of the curing of the parts. The new line has become a new market opportunity to improve the production efficiency of composite materials in various industries.
At the inauguration ceremony, guests gathered at the scene, and more than 150 composite material industry experts were invited to attend. Solvay introduced its proprietary DDF molding process and its application prospects to the participating experts.
"Today is a landmark day in the development history of Solvay's composites business. We have provided huge potential market opportunities for customers including the automotive and aerospace industries." Carmelo Lo Faro, Global President of Solvay's composites business Said that.
The double film forming method (DDF) is a highly automated compression molding technology, very similar to metal stamping. It can directly process flat blanks into composite parts with complex geometry through a one-step process.
Specifically, this molding method is divided into three steps: 1. Cut the prepreg into the planar shape of the part and lay it up to make a blank; 2. Assemble the diaphragm holder, and clamp the blank in two layers Between; 3. Preheat and send into the press for molding. The entire process is fully automated. The two-layer diaphragm plays a role in protecting the mold cavity from contamination and precise positioning. This means that only one mold is needed for uninterrupted production.