The current use of fuel efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft is
only possible by the development of innovative lightweight constructions and the use
of lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced plastics. With the rising
demand on fiber reinforced components in the aerospace industry new production
processes have been built up. However, current production technologies for
composites cause higher costs and obtain longer process cycle times in comparison
to the manufacturing processes of metals. Moreover raw materials, such as carbon
fibers and resin, and semi-finished products are very expensive. In contrast to this
and compared with other manufacturing technologies for fiber reinforced plastics Sheet Molding Compound compression processes are characterized by cost
efficiency, high productivity, the option of full automation and the possibility for
the realization of complex shapes and integrated functions. However there are also
some disadvantages like a low level of stiffness and strength in comparison to
continuous fiber reinforced plastics. The reasons for these facts are the short fibre
length, a lower fibre-volume fraction and an isotropic fibre distribution.
Consequently, the combination of sheet moulding compound and pre-impregnated,
tailored carbon fibre reinforcements in an one-shot compression moulding and
curing process merges the advantages of both groups of composite materials.
Therefore the creation of load-bearing, complex, functional and autoclave-quality
parts without an autoclave can be realised. In this chapter, this innovative
technology and its potentials are presented. This paper will also deal with the
resulting material characteristics.
Keywords: Aircraft, CFRP, Hybrid, Light weight, SMC.
