As composite materials are used more widely, and their applications become more challenging, SFA UK retains its competitive edge through its continual investment in R&D.

We commit substantial resources to maximizing existing technologies and investigating future manufacturing techniques and processes, resulting in many patents for the manufacture of autoclaves and ancilliary equipment. It was through our in-house programme that we designed the industry acclaimed ‘Autoclave Manager’ process control software and developed it into the suite of software which now comprises ‘Press Manager’, ‘Oven Manager’ and the mobile Hot Bond Controller System that are benchmarks for the industry.

One of the results of our exhaustive studies into the behavior of heating and airflow inside the pressurised autoclave environment, has been the creation of the patented Circumferential Airflow Technology System. The process provides unprecedented levels of temperature uniformity  to better control the cure process resulting in improved quality and consistency of finished components and increased throughput.

True to our ethos of thoroughly understanding how our equipment has to perform in our client’s production processes, we apply these techniques for our clients’ maximum benefit.

For example, it was our application of Circumferential Airflow Technology that allowed Airbus to develop their Creep Stress Forming process from the relatively manageable wing skins of the A320 aircraft to the colossal 5.5 metre (18ft) by 40 metre (133ft) wing skins used on the A380.