Thermoplastic overmolding of composite connecting rods

Direct over-injection of high-performance thermoplastic composite end caps on an ultra-rigid pultruded tube makes it possible to meet extreme specifications. It gives the designer the possibility of considering complex geometric shapes for the connecting elements in order to integrate a maximum of function in a single operation.

This technology co-patented by Epsilon Composite and Somocap, particularly suitable for medium and large series production, advantageously replaces the structural bonding or riveting traditionally used, by granting reliability, reproducibility and competitiveness for the manufacture of connecting rods, gripping arms, and all types of structural elements. The use of a thermoplastic also opens up solutions for the dissociation and recycling of end-of-life materials.

After a successful aeronautical qualification for the Airbus A350 program – more than 15,000 connecting rods of secondary structures mounted on the Airbus A350s with 0 delivery delays and 0 complaints – the process made it possible to obtain new qualifications in 2022 from leaders worldwide in robotics and agricultural machinery.

These qualifications demonstrate the potential of this alternative structural assembly process for a multitude of industries.