KraussMaffei opens integrated fibre-composites TechCenter in Munich

According to the company, the juxtaposition of the new RPM hall and the injection moulding hall right next to it creates unique scope for integrated processing. The benefits to customers are: physical proximity to and collaboration with KraussMaffei injection moulding experts, and the processing of reactive materials for custom and process-specific solutions.

The integrated TechCenter was officially launched by Dr. Karlheinz Bourdon, Frank Peters (both board members of KraussMaffei Technologies GmbH), Wolfgang Frehsdorf (Head of Operations Reaction Process Machinery) and Nicolas Beyl (Head of Technology).

“The new RPM hall, together with the unique possibility of integrating reaction process installations with injection moulding machines, is a wonderful platform for demonstrating all the various processes in all their diversity. It gives us the capability to identify the best process solution for our customers and to conduct practical tests on both the processes and the parts produced,” said Peters.

The 1,900 m² RPM hall houses 11 reaction-processing machines and installations, including one of the largest RTM systems worldwide. KraussMaffei says customers are assured of the highest levels of confidentiality, as individual areas can be sectioned off to protect their expertise. Should they wish to do so, they can then examine the part properties in the KraussMaffei's test lab afterwards, says the company.

Also boasting more than 15 injection moulding machines selected from the company's machinery spanning the clamping range of 35 to 40,000 t, the new integrated TechCenter for reaction processing and injection moulding presents customers with unique engineering expertise on some 4,000 m² of floor-space. They will now be better able to appreciate the opportunities afforded by integrated KraussMaffei process solutions, such as SkinForm for creating high-grade soft-touch surfaces, and C.A.S.E. for applying sealant and adhesive beads to parts direct.

“Customers are afforded an excellent overview of our full portfolio of high-end, high-performance machines and automation technology right along the process chain – from the preparatory stages through to final machining of parts. The new, integrated TechCenter epitomizes KraussMaffei’s concept of “Technology to the Power of Three,” which is unique in the industry,” added Dr. Bourdon.

Customers can gain a close-up impression of the size of and the opportunities afforded by the new TechCenter at the KraussMaffei Competence Forum for the first time on 19 May 2011 in Munich.