Wed, 13 September, 2023
Representatives from TWI were present at the recent International Composites Summit (ICS) in Milton Keynes between 6 and 7 September 2023.
The summit, which took place at the Marshall Arena took the theme of ‘Reinventing the Global Supply Chain to Enable a Sustainable Future.’
TWI Consultant, Chris Worrall offered a presentation titled, ‘Making the Next Generation of RTR Pipe Connections a Reality,’ where he spoke on novel composite structures. Chris’ work at TWI includes helping our Industrial Members to exploit the full benefits of composite materials across a range of different industries as well as helping develop innovative joining technologies. He has also helped to deliver non-metallic solutions for the oil and gas industry through his work with the Non-Metallic Innovation Centre (NIC).
Chris Worrall
Also in attendance at the summit was TWI composites engineer, Neelmanee Sarin, who provided attendees with an insight into the ‘ESENSE’ project. The aim of the project is to develop a cost-effective and versatile, self-heated out-of-autoclave (OOA) tool for the production of high-quality composite components for the aerospace industry. The tool includes advanced thermal management and multiple heating areas, while also integrating a "sensor ply" for in-process defect detection and predictive maintenance to ensure longevity. In addition to reducing both upfront and running costs, the ESENSE solution promises shorter processing times in comparison to existing autoclave methods.
As well as Neelmanee and Chris, TWI were represented at the event by project manager, Sadik Omairey who also presented at the event.
Sadik Omairey
The International Composites Summit brought together a range of speakers from industry and academia, along with innovators, researchers and industry leaders from the composites sector of knowledge sharing, networking and an exploration the latest international advancements in composite materials.
The ESENSE project has received funding from Innovate UK under collaborative R&D programme 10023349