Strengthening Bonds: FCS’s Visit to svismold®

Strengthening Bonds: FCS's Visit to svismold®

Kunststoffwerk AG Buchs is a successful manufacturer of plastic measuring tools from Switzerland for over 51 years. Since 2015, not only flding rules and calipers made of plastic have been produced there, but also high-quality thermoplastic composite parts.

A Week of Collaboration and Exchange

The visit was marked by a vibrant exchange of ideas, technical insights, and strategic planning. Both teams came together with a shared vision of pushing the boundaries of surf equipment technology. While the specific details of the projects remain under wraps, we can say that the week was a testament to the power of collaboration in driving forward-thinking solutions.

Building Stronger Relationships

One of the highlights of the week was the opportunity to strengthen our relationship with FCS. The in-person meetings allowed for deeper connections and a better understanding of each other’s work cultures. This face-to-face interaction fostered an environment of trust and mutual respect, which is essential for any successful partnership.

Shared Values and Goals

Both svismold® and FCS share a commitment to quality and innovation. Throughout the week, we explored how our combined efforts can lead to the development of superior products that meet the highest standards of performance and design. Our discussions were not just about the technical aspects but also about our shared values and long-term goals.

Working Together Personally

What made the visit truly special was the human element. From informal lunch and dinner times to more structured brainstorming sessions, the week was filled with moments that highlighted the importance of personal connections in business. The camaraderie and team spirit were palpable, and these interactions undoubtedly laid the groundwork for future collaborations. Here we thank Federico Ponsa and Tara Hall for this incredible week.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities that this strengthened partnership brings. After the successful debut of the H4 Fin, we are looking forward to another fruitful and long-term collaboration. Together, we are poised to create innovative solutions that will set new benchmarks in the industry.

Stay Connected

To stay updated on our projects and collaborations, check out our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

We are proud of the work we do and the partnerships we build. Here’s to many more years of innovation and collaboration!

Stiff, Stiffer, Composite

composite folding ruler

Stiff, Stiffer, Composite: Revolutionizing Folding Rules with Composite Technology

Our journey into composite technology began with a simple yet significant challenge: creating a folding rule that balances stiffness, durability, and precision. This case study delves into our exploration, experimentation, and ultimate triumph in engineering a game-changing solution.

Missing Stiffnes

Robust and Stiff Folding Ruler

Challenge a New Technology

The Problem

Plastic folding rules, while durable and long-lasting, often lack the stiffness required for precise measurements over extended distances. This inherent flexibility compromises accuracy, presenting a significant obstacle in various applications.

The Process

Our journey was marked by relentless experimentation and refinement. We explored various approaches, including strengthening plastic with fibreglass, but found them not being stiff enough. Undeterred, we turned our attention to a novel solution: strengthening tape.

Layering precise unidirectional tape during the injection moulding process emerged as a promising technique. However, achieving optimal results required overcoming numerous challenges and setbacks. Through perseverance and innovation, we honed our process, paving the way for a groundbreaking breakthrough.

 

Our mission was clear: develop a folding rule that rivals the stiffness of traditional wooden rulers while retaining the longevity and robustness of plastic alternatives. We recognized the need for innovation to bridge this gap and set out to redefine industry standards.

The Solution

The culmination of our efforts yielded a revolutionary solution: a composite folding rule fortified with precisely layered unidirectional tape. This innovative approach not only enhanced stiffness to rival wooden rulers but also imparted unparalleled durability and weather resistance.

Furthermore, the integration of strengthening tape elevated the folding rule to accuracy class 2, traditionally reserved for metal rulers. This achievement underscored the transformative impact of our composite technology, setting a new standard for precision measuring tools.

UD Tape has proven to be the perfect solution

Our Conclusion

Our journey from conception to realization exemplifies the power of innovation and collaboration. By pushing the boundaries of traditional materials and techniques, we’ve unlocked new possibilities in the realm of folding rules. As we continue to pioneer advancements in composite technology, we look forward to empowering professionals with tools that redefine performance and reliability.

Would you like to know more? Visit our other brand for measuring tools  www.kwbswiss.ch

Talk to us!

We are looking forward hearing from you.

Or contact us through our social media 

light weight construction parts

Composites examples leichtbau

Lightweight construction parts - definition and application

Lightweight components, often key components of modern technologies, have had a significant impact on numerous industries in recent years. But what makes them light weight and how are they used in different sectors?

Definition

Lightweight components are components whose main characteristic is their low weight in relation to their mechanical strength and functionality. These components are usually made from materials that offer high strength at low weight. This enables improved performance and efficiency in a variety of applications.

Features of lightweight components

Low weight: The primary characteristic of lightweight components is their low weight compared to parts made of conventional materials such as metal.

High strength: Despite their low weight, lightweight components often have remarkable mechanical strength, which expands their range of applications.

Material diversity: Lightweight parts can be made from a variety of materials, including composites, aluminium alloys and advanced plastics. Thermoplastic composites show ideal properties in weight reduction as well as flexibility and stability.


Applications of lightweight construction in various industries:

Luft-und Raumfahrt
Aerospace

In the aerospace industry, lightweight components are crucial for reducing the overall weight of aeroplanes and spacecraft. This leads to lower fuel consumption and a higher payload.

Automobil automotive
Automotive

Lightweight construction plays a central role in the automotive industry, as lighter vehicles can increase driving dynamics, reduce fuel consumption and thus minimise environmental impact. Lightweight components can be found in body parts, engine components and chassis.

Energie
Energy

In energy technology, lightweight components are used in wind turbines and other renewable energy technologies to improve efficiency and durability.

Medizintechnik
Medical technology

Lightweight components are also used in medical technology, particularly in prostheses, implants and medical devices to increase patient comfort.

Sportindustrie
Sports industry

In the sports industry, lightweight components are used to improve the efficiency of athletes. svismold® thermoplastic composites show the advantages not only in weight reduction, but also in precise flexibility and ideal properties. One example of this is the FCS H4 surf fin. Other sporting goods can also benefit from the advantages.

Bauwesen
Construction

In the construction industry, lightweight components are used for structural and façade components to increase the load-bearing capacity of buildings and optimise material consumption. The LongLife® Plus composite folding ruler is an ideal example of how a plastic folding rules can be reinforced and improved using svismold® technology. This has solved a long-standing problem with folding rules made from plastic: sagging over 2 metres.

Lightweight components are revolutionising various industries by offering a balanced combination of weight efficiency and strength. Their diverse applications not only contribute to more sustainable production, but also enable innovative solutions in technologies that impact our daily lives. In a world that is increasingly looking for environmentally friendly and efficient solutions, lightweight components play a crucial role in shaping the future.

Innovative Thermoplastic Composite Solutions

jec world 2024 in paris

Innovative Thermoplastic Composites Solutions

unveiled by svismold® at JEC World 2024

svismold®, a leading innovator in the development and production of tailored thermoplastic composites solutions, is set to showcase its cutting-edge offerings at the JEC World 2024 in Paris.

About svismold®: svismold® specializes in crafting high-end thermoplastic composites solutions designed for diverse applications, with a primary focus on the sports industry. The company is renowned for its commitment to innovation, precision engineering, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in composite materials.

JEC World 2024 Participation: svismold® is thrilled to announce its participation in the JEC World 2024, a major event for the composites industry. The company will be exhibiting under its brand, showing groundbreaking solutions that demonstrate the intersection of technology, performance, and sustainability. We will exhibit at the Composite united booth. You’ll find us in Hall 6, P24. 

Key Highlights:

Tailored Solutions: svismold’s showcase will feature individualized thermoplastic composites solutions, tailored to meet the unique demands of the sports industry. These solutions are also adaptable for various technical applications.

Innovated Perfection: svismold® develops unique solutions and ensures highest quality. With FEM analysis the company test the possibilities and materials for perfectly fitting solutions. 

Sustainability Focus: svismold® remains committed to sustainable practices. Learn about the company’s initiatives to minimize environmental impact while delivering top-notch performance in composite materials. We offer solutions with natural and sustainable materials for a better future.

Serial Production: svismold® offers not only unique parts tailored to our customer’s needs, but they also produce in serial. Therefore, material and time can be efficiently used.

At the heart of svismold’s showcase are its individually tailored thermoplastic composites solutions. These solutions, meticulously crafted to meet the unique demands of the customer, exemplify the company’s commitment to pushing the envelope in thermoplastic composite parts. From lightweight components to advanced structural elements, svismold’s offerings showcase a perfect blend of innovation and functionality.

Technical Versatility: While svismold® has carved a significant niche in the sports industry, the company’s technical expertise extends far beyond the athletic arena. The versatility of svismold’s solutions makes them applicable to a myriad of technical sectors. Whether it’s aerospace, automotive, or any other industry seeking advanced composite materials, svismold® has the expertise to address diverse challenges and opportunities.

Meet the svismold® Team: Visit svismold® at Booth P24 in Hall 6 during JEC World 2024 to engage with the team, explore product offerings, and discover how svismold’s innovative solutions can elevate your projects.

About svismold®: Since 1970 we are well established in the plastic industry as Kunststoffwerk AG. With the focus of thermoplastic composites projects the brand svismold® was established in 2018. The company offers unique and individual thermoplastic solutions. They work with partners such the IWK, Institute for Materials Technology and Plastics Processing for precise analysis to meet their customers needs. With a focus on innovation, precision engineering, and sustainability, svismold® is a trusted partner for companies seeking advanced solutions in composite materials.

Project management in component development

Project management in component development

In the world of thermoplastic composite parts, project management plays a crucial role. It enables the efficient development, production and delivery of customised components that meet customers’ specific requirements. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of project management in component development.

Understanding of project management in component development

Project management at svismold® is a structured approach to planning, implementing and controlling projects. This approach involves identifying goals, tasks, resources and timelines to ensure that a project is completed successfully. For us, it is crucial to plan each composite part project precisely to ensure the highest quality and customer satisfaction.

Clear objectives and requirements

Every project at svismold® starts with clear objectives and requirements. This is the first step in the project management process. Customer requests and specifications are carefully analysed to guarantee that all requirements are understood and documented. This forms the basis for the entire project process.

We listen carefully to our customers so that we can clarify the requirements and possibilities right from the start.

Communication and cooperation

Clear communication and cooperation are crucial to the success of a composite project. svismold® relies on transparent communication with customers and partners. Regular meetings and updates ensure that everyone involved is on the same page and that any problem can be identified and rectified in good time. Teamwork is the key to effectively coordinating different aspects of development through to production.

Project planning and resource calculation

Once the goals and requirements are set, we create a detailed project plan. This plan defines tasks, responsibilities and timetables. Resources, including labour, materials and equipment, are carefully allocated so that the project can run smoothly. The aim is to monitor the progress of the project and ensure that all milestones are reached on time. In order to maintain an overview, we work with modern software and regularly discuss with our customers.

Risk management and adaptability

Project management in component development also requires effective risk management. svismold® identifies potential risks at an early stage and develops strategies for risk avoidance or mitigation. The ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges is crucial. Flexibility and the ability to adapt are core competencies in project management. Our customers can rely on us, because flexible communication means that risks are identified and remedied early enough.

Quality control and monitoring

Quality control is an essential part of project management at svismold®. Strict quality standards and procedures are followed throughout the project to ensure that each component meets the highest quality standards. Regular monitoring and auditing ensure that the project is on track and customer requirements are met.

Project management as a factor for success

In component development, project management is the key to success. For companies like svismold®, it enables the efficient implementation of customised projects that require the highest quality and precision. With clear goals, careful planning, transparent communication and constant quality control, companies in thermoplastic component development can satisfy their customers and drive innovation.

Innovation: Vacuum holding technology

Innovation vacuum holding technology

As a Swiss company, svismold® is known for its innovative solutions in the field of thermoplastic composite technology and injection moulding. However, the company does not rest on its laurels, but is always looking for new ways to improve the precision and efficiency of its processes. One of these innovative solutions is their vacuum holding technology.

Innovation: Vacuum holding technology

Innovative holding technology revolutionises the production

This method makes it possible to hold cut-outs of the UD tape precisely in the injection moulds by vacuum in order to inject them with hot polyamide. There are no edges that need to be sanded down or otherwise embellished. The thermoplastic composite part is ready and requires no further finishing. This has enormous advantages, also in terms of design freedom.

Vacuum holding technology allows products to be adapted and individualised exactly to the customer’s wishes. Savings in materials, time and costs are possible and the products are finished very quickly. No post-processing of the product is necessary, which saves an enormous amount of time.

But how did this innovative solution come about? The story begins just over 5 years ago when the svismold® team was once again looking for a way to increase the accuracy and efficiency of their processes. They experimented with different technologies and finally came across the vacuum holding technique.

From the very beginning, the svismold® team was convinced of the effectiveness and efficiency of this technique. They tested it in various situations and found that it actually helped to increase the precision and speed of their processes enormously. This is how vacuum holding technology became an integral part of svismold® applications.

Today, svismold® is known for its innovative solutions in the field of thermoplastic composite technology. Vacuum holding technology is just one innovative solution the company has developed to satisfy its customers and improve its processes.

Innovation is paramount at svismold® and the vacuum holding technology is a perfect example of this. By combining traditional injection moulding and thermoplastic composite technology, the company has developed a method that is not only precise and efficient, but also increases customers’ design freedom. With svismold® as a partner, companies can be sure they are getting the latest and most effective solutions in injection moulding and thermoplastic composite technology.

The future of thermoplastic components: Innovations, trends and challenges

The future of thermoplastic components

Innovations, trends and challenges.

The world of thermoplastic components is undergoing rapid change. With new innovations and technological advances, these components are not only crucial for the industry, but also for a sustainable future.

In this blog post, we take a look at the future of thermoplastic components, the trends that are driving them and the challenges that need to be overcome.

Innovative materials and composition

One of the most exciting features of future thermoplastic components are the material innovations. Manufacturers are striving to develop materials that are not only lightweight and durable, but also environmentally friendly. A remarkable development is the processing and use of recycled plastics, so-called recyclate, in the production of such components. This approach reduces the carbon footprint and shows that thermoplastic composite parts can become more sustainable.

Tapes made from natural fibres and sustainable materials are becoming increasingly important. Furthermore, these materials can convince with an outstanding design aspect. Basalt or flax, for example, can be used here. These materials not only look good, but also impress with their technical properties.

Individualisation and tailor-made solutions

The requirements for thermoplastic composite parts are also becoming more specific. The requirements for thermoplastic composite parts are also becoming more specific. This is where CAD technology comes into play. Through advanced software and 3D modelling, the desired parts can be designed and developed in close collaboration with customers. This allows for unprecedented customisation and precision.

The role of quality control

In the future, thermoplastic components will become even more complex and demanding. This requires stricter quality assurance – and auditing. Innovative technologies such as automated quality controls will play a central role. Among other things, svismold® relies on an automated camera inspection that checks 100% of the parts. This is our approach to ensuring that our thermoplastic composite parts meet the highest quality standards.

A promising future

The future of thermoplastic components is promising and full of possibilities. With innovative materials, tailor-made solutions, a clear focus on sustainability and precise quality assurance, this industry will continue to be fit for the future. That is why we see ourselves as pioneers on the path to an environmentally conscious and technologically advanced future

JEC World 2023 in Paris

JEC World 2023

From raw material suppliers to processors and end users – all global players in the industry come together here. More than 1,100 exhibitors presented their composite solutions and innovations to over 36,000 visitors. A fair dedicated to composites, bringing together innovations and applications for various sectors: aerospace, construction, automotive, marine, sports and leisure, industry and energy.

The JEC World exhibition is the largest international event for the composites industry.

Die JEC World 2023 fand vom 25. bis 27. April 2023 in Paris statt und wir, svismold® waren stolz darauf, Teil davon zu sein!

Our services in the development and production of thermoplastic composite parts were particularly in focus.

Our innovative combination of tried and tested injection moulding with thermoplastic bonding is ideal for replacing metals or thermosets. The various svismold® processes score with many advantages such as weight savings, efficient material consumption, automated processes and production without post-processing. The design is also freely selectable and the surfaces can be adapted exactly to the product requirements.

A fair dedicated to composites, bringing together innovations and applications for various sectors: aerospace, construction, automotive, marine, sports and leisure, industry and energy.

Svismold at the JEC World exhibition in France

You could meet us at the joint Composites United stand in Hall 6 R 28.

At JEC World we presented, among other things, the H4 surf fin, which we developed and produce together with FCS. The H4 fin is the first thermoplastic composite fin and impresses with its extreme stability despite its size. The surfing experience is unique thanks to manoeuvrability and speed. The FCS H4 professional fin is made of UD tape and fibre-reinforced polypropylene and is manufactured using the special svismold® vacuum holding technique, which holds the cut-outs of the tape in the moulds without hooks. This prevents them from slipping when injecting. The production is efficient and possible without reworking, so that we can currently produce about two H4 fins in just one minute. A great example of our technology!

Benefits of our svismold® technologies

Save weight

Use material efficiently

Optimised processes through automation

No postprocessing

Flexibility and strength can be precisely adjusted

the design is hardly restricted

We would like to thank all visitors. We were very pleased to be able to welcome you in person and to have exciting discussions. We are delighted with your interest in our thermoplastic services and look forward to future contacts and exchanges. If you missed us at the fair, please feel free to contact us by email or phone.

svismold – stronger together

svismold - stronger together

Kunststoffwerk AG Buchs is a successful manufacturer of plastic measuring tools from Switzerland for over 51 years. Since 2015, not only folding rules and calipers made of plastic have been produced there, but also high-quality thermoplastic composite parts.

After the composite folding rule had established itself in the market in 2018, the business line with focus on thermoplastic composite parts was assigned its own name in 2019 – svismold®. Here, traditional injection moulding is combined with precise composite technology – stronger together.

Since then, svismold® has been able to demonstrate further specifications – for example, the vacuum holding technology developed in-house.

 

The production is very cost and material efficient. This can be noticed especially in series production with medium or high print runs. In addition, the process is completely automated by fully equipped robots and the camera control system checks the quality of every single part. This results in an extremely fast production of free-falling products.

Based on project work, svismold® develops innovative solutions. The svismold® process can be particularly advantageous for metal-replacing parts in sports, car manufacturing and other technical industries. Not only can weight be saved traditionally. svismold® impresses with precision and design freedom. The product can be tailored exactly to the user’s wishes.

Pinpoint flexibility

Due to different tapes and orientations of the fibres, the stability and flexibility can be individually and precisely adapted to your product.

Weight reduction

With svismold® foamed, we can demonstrate a weight reduction of up to 30%.

Design freedom

With our tape-reinforced thermoplastic composite parts, there are virtually no limits to your design.

How svismold® can help you.

Our technology has some advantages.

From weight reduction to pinpoint flexibility and design freedom, our techniques are used in many areas.

Talk to us!

We are looking forward hearing from you.

Or contact us through our social media