What are Composite Bonding Tools?

For years, suppliers who make structural composite parts have needed them. To do this, they use molds that allow for draping and bonding to make these composite parts for airplanes, helicopters, and land, or space vehicles.

But what is it really? How does it perform? And what is the added value? Keep reading to find out…

What is the expected performance?

We have to start at the beginning: manufacturing and, above all, thinking about the product. Thus, for a mold to be efficient, it must perfectly meet the definition, the design, and the specifications of the manufactured part. It must adapt to precise requirements and meet the needs of customers.

But, what are the customers' issues with this type of component? First of all, the price is an investment for the latter, and must therefore be fair. Then, one has to think about the potential delays of the product and its quality, the assistance of the internal/external supplier, the lack of availability according to the industrialization plan, and the lack of qualification of the supplier. Then, let's remember that know-how is not core, resources and skills tend to disappear.

All of these issues are not to be taken lightly if you want to ensure your client's satisfaction. Their support is essential. The field is very specific, the customers are not counted in thousands, and must all be a priority for the suppliers of composite parts.

And what are the benefits expected by customers? They expect capabilities, expertise and innovative solutions. But that's not all...They are also very attached to the respect of cost, time, and quality. Their other expectations concern a certain reactivity, autonomy, and reliability from these suppliers. The new offer must be innovative, with vertical integration, and seen in the offset framework. Customer satisfaction is essential to the survival of the company and all these benefits must be brought to the customers.

And what about builders? Finally, the manufactured part must meet the tolerances required by the manufacturers. And it will depend on the quality. It must be correct and repeated for each part manufactured and installed. In this field, the Koreans are particularly renowned for the quality of their products. 

Capital gains brought by the Koreans

What are they? We can mention the quality of the molds, the respect of supply deadlines, the prices, or even the financing of the investment. All these technical points rank the Koreans among the best suppliers of composite parts. 

Their little extra? The availability of resources, know-how and experience as well as long-lasting and stable expertise. They master the basic knowledge of composite materials and meticulously understand the design process, from the choice of material to the inspection of parts, including the phases of characterization, sizing/calculation, implementation, etc. 

To achieve such a level of excellence, it is therefore necessary to draw inspiration from champions in the field with determination and commitment. 

Conclusion: composite bonding tools are the future

Korea is paving the way for us, we just have to follow its example. Composite parts have a bright future ahead of them…

And you, what do you think? 

Bertrand BORD