A New Generation of Thermoplastic Lining Panels for Aerospace Application
T. Joppich, Fraunhofer ICT, Pfinztal, Germany
V. Wippo, Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V., Hannover, Germany
A. Menrath, Fraunhofer ICT, Pfinztal, Germany
P. Jäschke, Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V., Hannover, Germany
F. Henning, Fraunhofer ICT, Pfinztal, Germany

Abstract:
The use of thermoplastic composites is a growing trend in aerospace industry due to its promissing potentials for outstanding specific stiffness and flame retardant properties being combined with reaction-free and integrative joining technologies. Addressing their potential, within the LuFo V-1 program a new generation of thermoplastic lining panels was developed, which can be applied in cases such as in the cargo compartment of airplanes. It consists of a hybrid reinforcement structure, which is produced in a two-step overmolding process and a liner, which is laser transmission welded to the supporting structure. The manufacturing of the panels was demonstrated using automated processes in full scale.