The vacuum-assisted process (VAP^®) is an infusion technique that makes use of modern semi-permeable membrane systems. As in the case of the conventional VARI process, the dry reinforcement fibre preform is positioned between a fixed-position lower mould and a vacuum set-up topped by a vacuum film. When the cavity between the lower mould and the film is evacuated the liquid resin system is sucked in and cross-links the reinforcement textiles. An integrated semi-permeable membrane offers significant advantages over conventional vacuum infusion processes in terms of evacuation and infiltration, with benefits including enhanced component quality, increased fibre volume content, lower porosity and a significant reduction in reject rates. Its special process characteristics make VAP^® technology particularly suitable for large shell-like components and thick-walled structures.

Our service portfolio

• Assessment of the suitability of the VAP^® process for your component
• VAP^®-compatible component design
• Development of a VAP^® process for your component (including cost analysis)
• Mould design and dimensioning
• Prototype manufacturing using the VAP^® process

Our facilities (used as part of our cooperation with the Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology (ILK) at
TU Dresden)

• Vacuum pumps
• Pressurized curing vessels
• Cutting table for the preparation of reinforcement textiles and vacuum materials