A challenge for precision composite cutting was undertaken by the team at COMPCUT, the specialist division of Sharp & Tappin, to test the capabilities of its Precision Composite Router (PCR) 300 series. The challenge of crafting a Welsh symbol was commissioned by Port Talbot-based test lab R-TECH Materials.
The dragon celebrates Wales making the World Cup for the first time since 1958. Its emblazoned red carbon fibre was achieved using a unique carbon colouring system developed by Hypetex. The piece was laminated by resin technology at R-TECH’s test laminate manufacture facility.
Due to the complexity of the dragon shape, the PCR 300 was chosen for its ‘hybrid’ machining solution of milling and grinding; offering a versatile range of cutting and finish abilities that ultimately demonstrated the machine’s impeccable cutting intricacy.
The process began with the machining of the vac bed to which the carbon fibre composite material was placed atop, ensuring a fixed position by vacuum pressure.
A rough cut of the shape was then made using a 2.5mm diamond tool, before an air pressurised blow down cleaned the panel of any excess debris. Delivering an unbeaten edge and surface finish, the PCR 300 completed the challenge with small tool detailing from 2.5mm and as small as 0.5mm.
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18 November 2022
