Recently, KraussMaffei, in collaboration with the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), the U.S., successfully developed a structural component with a complex rib structure for electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, using its FiberForm process. This marks a breakthrough in the application of the thermoplastic lightweight solution in low-altitude transportation.

The structural component was produced on KraussMaffei's GXW 450-2000/1400 injection molding machine, which integrates the FiberForm process. The process places organic sheets - continuous fibers impregnated with thermoplastic resin - into a mold, where they are formed and then overmolded through injection molding, enabling seamless, fully integrated part production. Compared to traditional metal rib structures that require time-consuming and material-intensive milling, the FiberForm process reduces production time from over 100 hours to just 2 minutes, all while ensuring the same mechanical strength and safety.

The innovative reinforced rib structure demonstrates the FiberForm process's exceptional efficiency and cost-effectiveness in building complex aerospace components, setting a new benchmark for the aviation manufacturing industry.