Applied Composites AB ACAB offers reliable repairs and reconditioning of both composites and metal structures. Repairs are carried out in our workshops in Linköping or on site. In the latter case, we use portable equipment to apply controlled heat and pressure in field conditions.
Repair of composites structures
Applied Composites performs repairs on every type of composite structure, from vehicle bodies to advanced carbon and aramide fibre composites in aircraft components.
Examples of damages:
- Impact
- Lightning
- Wear
- Corrosion
- Erosion
- Fatigue
Repair of metal structures
Metal structures can advantageously be repaired or reconditioned with the aid of composite materials. This applies not only to aluminium but also to other metals such as titanium, magnesium, hardened steel and stainless steel.
Radome repair
We have the facilities and skills to test, evaluate and correct all kinds of radomes, for all applications. Our deep knowledge in design, production and tuning of advanced radomes gives us an extra edge in this field.
Repair methods
To perform repairs on a variety of composites structures a number of different methods must be used.
Wet lay-up
Rebuilding structure using dry fabrics and resin, mainly epoxy. Curing in room temperature or at elevated temperature, with or without vacuum consolidation.
Pre-preg lay-up
Rebuilding of structure using pre-impregnated fibre materials of cloth or uni-directional tape. Curing take place in oven or autoclave and consolidation is normally achieved by a vacuum bag.
Adhesive bonding
Paste or film adhesives is used for bonding of composite to composite as well as metal to metal or other combinations. Included in adhesive bonding is surface pre treatment.
Silicon work
Silicone is an important group of materials, the use is predominant for parts used in hot areas. Silicone works must be separated from other composite or bonding work to avoid silicone contamination.
Crack Patching
Crack-Patching is a method to stop damages, due to fatigue or corrosion, from propagating. A patch of polymer composite is bonded to the damaged metal structure. The method ends up with a very light weight and endurable repair.The method is suitable for most aluminium and light alloys. It can be done insitu, which means a minimum of down-time and dismantling.