ExxonMobil Product Solutions Co. (EMPSC, Spring, Texas, U.S.) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology (ICT, Pfinztal, Germany), have successfully commissioned a novel capability to validate efficient production of vehicle components via high-pressure resin transfer molding (HP-RTM). This advanced setup is now fully operational and ready to support trials using ExxonMobil’s Proxxima resin system.

The joint initiative aims to accelerate the development of high-performance, fiber-reinforced vehicle components manufactured via HP-RTM. “Our objective is to produce load-bearing vehicle components that are more durable, lighter and more cost-effective than conventional materials such as aluminum,” explains Jasper Steffens, project manager at Fraunhofer ICT. A key focus of the collaboration is achieving short cycle times in series production, thereby demonstrating the efficiency and value of Proxxima systems-enabled composite components across all vehicle propulsion technologies.

With the technology platform now ready for industry engagement, EMPSC and Fraunhofer ICT invite automotive manufacturers and suppliers of lightweight components to explore the capabilities of this Customer Collaboration Hub:

• Latest HP-RTM technology and state-of-the-art dosing system
• The Proxxima technology material development toolkit
• Advanced virtual methods for structural and manufacturing simulations.

Industry stakeholders are encouraged to use the facility to explore, prototype and learn with Proxxima systems, while benefiting from the expertise of Fraunhofer ICT staff.

Special thanks goes to Cannon Afros, Frimo and Simutence for contributing to this milestone.