The ThermoPlastic composites Research Center (TPRC) has a new tier-1 member: Victrex, who recently introduced the new Victrex AE 250 composite family based on PAEK polymer. Planned joint activities will concentrate on the acceleration and proliferation of new technologies with the aim of addressing industry needs regarding costs, speed of manufacturing and assembly of aircraft components.

TPRC has an extensive thermoplastic (TP) processing knowledge, Victrex has in-depth expertise in PAEK materials and applications in combination with a new hybrid moulding technology. As a tier-1 member, Victrex will work alongside other tier-1 and 2 members, such as Boeing, Daher, Dedienne, TenCate and Vaupell SB aero.

With the design and manufacture of an advanced demonstration part, the TPRC presented the results of a collaborative project of its members and further renowned companies on the overmoulding of thermoplastic composites. The part features a typical grid stiffened panel that can be found in large numbers in aerostructure applications, made of Victrex PAEK material solutions and currently among the finalists for the prestigious Camx Combined Strength Award 2017.