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FibreTec3D
FibreTec3D
FibreTec3D modular system
The latest product in the field of lightweight construction is the FibreTec3D. FFT was integrated into the development process by the product developer Daimler. This process enables the production of carbon components by eliminating the disadvantages of conventional carbon production technologies, such as the use of complex and cost-intensive semi-finished products, the production of offcuts and limited automation potential. After impregnation in a resin-hardener mixture, a carbon fiber is placed around winding cores using a robot with a fiber placement tool to produce a carbon component.
The FibreTec3D process enables the production of both standardized carbon profiles and individual three-dimensional components. To introduce the technology at Mercedes-Benz and in the automotive industry, the first step was to identify the areas of operating resources in assembly and a modular system for robot grippers as well as structural components in the vehicle. Mercedes-Benz has already carried out initial operational tests in this area.
In addition to traditional FFT business areas, FibreTec3D enables FFT to diversify into the production of load carriers for logistics applications as well as future business areas beyond the automotive industry. For the current AMG Black Series, a transmission carrier manufactured using the FibreTec3D process is already being produced and used in small series at Mercedes-Benz. This has undergone all the necessary testing and validation procedures and fulfilled all the conditions for series production, with a weight saving of over 50%.
In the area of load carriers, FibreTec3D technology opens up new possibilities for weight-critical components (such as batteries or axles) that prevent trucks from being fully loaded. Initial analyses and samples at Mercedes-Benz based on the load carrier of the EQS battery have shown that at least 25% weight can be saved by using FibreTec3D profiles, thus enabling full loading. In order to industrialize the technology, the first step planned is the market launch of FibreTec profiles and connectors as a weight-optimized substitute for EGT profiles. To this end, a test facility has been installed in Fulda West, which will be used to test and validate the technology and to produce the first customer profiles. A reserve is planned in the test facility in order to upgrade the technology for individual three-dimensional components in the future.
