Autoclaves for composites

Our solutions for the processing of composite materials are complete pressurised systems, which meet specific specifications through bespoke designs, devised and agreed with the customer, that adapt the autoclaves to the required industrial throughput, available space and production schedules.

Racing on the tracks or flying without limits

From glider wings to motorbike fuel tanks, Ser.Com autoclaves for composite materials can handle large individual components or smaller parts treated together in the machine to optimise the production process.

Over the years, we have perfected our machines to such an extent that we have achieved fully automated and customised cycle management, with recording, logging and printing of process data. Such data can include time, pressure, temperature and vacuum status.

Continuous experimentation, a cornerstone of our company, has enabled us to develop energy-efficient autoclaves for composite materials that stand today as an example of excellent Made-in-Italy craftsmanship.

Immagine di una autoclave per materiali compositi - Image of an autoclave for composite materials
What are composite materials?
How the autoclave process works

Composite materials represent the latest technological frontier in the aerospace and automotive fields. They result from the combination of two or more materials, depending on the application and the desired physical, technical and mechanical characteristics.

The use of these innovative materials ensures lightness, strength, rigidity, design versatility and weight reduction. The materials that are most frequently treated and combined in our autoclaves are:

  • Carbon fibres;
  • Kevlar;
  • Glass;
  • Thermoplastic polymers; 
  • Metals;
  • Epoxy resins.

Autoclaves for composite materials are machines equipped with a hermetic seal within which temperature and pressure can be managed in a controlled environment. These parameters are monitored at different stages of the polymerisation process and, when set up optimally, ensure the correct formation of the composite material to be produced.

The curing process in a pressurised autoclave generates uniformity in the moulding and makes this technique the ultimate high-quality production method for these materials.

APPLICATION AREAS

Aerospace
Automotive
Naval
Building
Furniture
Design
Energy
Sport
Aviation industry

Technical details

  • The door is opened and closed by a fully motorised mechanism with a pressurised gasket system for a perfect seal.
  • The machine features “bag-by-bag” vacuum control, with automatic blocking in case of breakage.
  • It is also supplied with internal dollies for handling the load to be formed.

All components are manufactured according to prevailing regulatory standards for pressurised equipment in accordance with Directive 2014/68/EU PED.

You can also customise the number of internal vacuum fittings and their management system.

 Autoclaves for composite materials are equipped with system control and management software. The same system software incorporates remote user support functionality.

They can be customised in size, pressure and operating temperature to achieve a versatile and efficient production process.

Components

  • Heating system (electric/thermal oil)
  • Air circulation system
  • Pressurisation system
  • Vacuum creation pump
  • Handling system
  • Electrical control panels
  • Control and automation software

Size options (examples)

  • Autoclave X – 2.5 m x Ø 1 m (150 °C – 8 bar)
  • Autoclave Y – 4 m x Ø1.8 m (180 °C – 12 bar)
  • Autoclave Z – 5 m x Ø1.5 m (200 °C – 16 bar)
  • Customised autoclave – fully customisable to customer specifications/custom dimensions