Braskem and WEAV3D Celebrate Their Innovations
Braskem, the leading producer of polyolefins in the Americas and a prominent name in biopolymers, has teamed up with WEAV3D Inc., an innovative startup in advanced manufacturing. Together, they won accolades for their groundbreaking thermoplastic composite lattice technology. This recognition came during the Automotive Composites Conference and Exhibition, hosted by the Society for Plastics Engineers (SPE) and highlighted by the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA). This collaborative effort has resulted in significant strides in automotive composite technology, especially with support from the Clemson Composites Center.
Collaboration that Earns Recognition
Joel Carr, the Technical Service and Development Engineering Team Leader at Braskem America, discussed the importance of this partnership. He pointed out that the Rebar for Plastics® Lattice Technology brings notable benefits, including improved strength and decreased weight in composite materials. The acknowledgments from SPE and ACMA truly reflect the team's dedication to creating sustainable materials while minimizing carbon emissions during the automotive manufacturing process.
Significant Weight Reduction and Cost Effectiveness
The partnership between WEAV3D's lattice technology and Braskem's polypropylene is revolutionary. It provides lighter and more cost-effective thermoplastic alternatives compared to conventional organosheets. One practical example of this innovation is the redesign of an automotive door structure, which successfully achieved a weight reduction of 23%, a cost cut of 50%, and a 62% decrease in scrap compared to the older organosheet component.
A Year of Honors for WEAV3D
Christopher Oberste, President and Chief Engineer of WEAV3D, shared his thoughts on the numerous honors the company has recently received, highlighting the strong industry interest in their composite forming technology. The latest recognitions, including the Altair Enlighten Award as well as accolades from SPE and ACMA, further emphasize the market's appreciation for their affordable solutions in composite technology.
Awards Highlighting Innovations in Composites
About WEAV3D Inc. and Braskem
WEAV3D Inc. began as a tech startup within the well-regarded Materials Science and Engineering department at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The company has developed a patent-pending composite forming process designed to create optimized lattice structures. This innovation allows industries such as automotive and aerospace to manufacture lighter, durable components at competitive prices and improved production times.
Braskem employs nearly 9,000 people and is committed to sustainability while producing various plastic resins and chemical products for sectors like food packaging, automotive, and healthcare. With production facilities in the U.S., Brazil, Mexico, and Germany, Braskem reaches over 70 countries, signifying its global footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent awards did Braskem and WEAV3D receive?
They were awarded the Most Innovative Part by SPE and the Material and Process Innovation Award from ACMA for their collaborative development of thermoplastic composite technology.
What advantages does the Rebar for Plastics® Lattice Technology offer?
This technology enhances strength while reducing weight and manufacturing costs in automotive applications, making it significantly more efficient than conventional materials.
What impact does the combination of WEAV3D's technology and Braskem's polypropylene have?
The partnership results in thermoplastic solutions that are lighter, more affordable, and eco-friendly compared to traditional metal alternatives.
How does revolutionary technology like WEAV3D's transform the automotive industry?
It enables substantial reductions in vehicle weight and costs, contributing to sustainability goals while enhancing overall efficiency in manufacturing processes.
Where can I find more information about WEAV3D and Braskem?
For more information, you can visit WEAV3D and Braskem’s official websites, where you'll find insights into their innovative technologies and sustainable practices.
