The DOMMINIO project, funded through the “Mobility for Growth” action of the European Horizon 2020 framework program, came to an end in 2024. The final phase of the project involved developing the latest thermoplastic stiffened panel demonstrators using in-situ consolidation technologies and innovative additive manufacturing geometries. The demonstrators were then mechanically tested to provide valuable information for identifying opportunities to exploit these developments.
Apart from developing these demonstrators, Aciturri was particularly interested in the maturation of multidisciplinary design tools aimed at developing aeronautical components more efficiently and in less time. These tools were tested on the demonstrators manufactured during the project.
Aciturri completed the Neotail program in 2024. This project was part of the CDTI's CIEN Strategic Program and aimed to develop a rudder made of thermoplastic material using various manufacturing technologies.
Using the basic components manufactured at the beginning of the year, two open boxes were completed, one using conduction welding and the other using induction welding. Analysis of the results showed that both technologies have great potential, though further development is necessary in both cases. Finally, additional basic components were manufactured to complete a box consisting of two coverings, a cross member, and a strut using induction welding.
In parallel with this activity, mechanical tests have been carried out on test tubes with different configurations to characterize the weld interface. Additionally, paint tests have been conducted to demonstrate suitability for painting.
This project, funded by CDTI under its PID program, was completed in early 2024 and is being continued in the FAIRDEV project, which is currently underway. At the beginning of the year, the opening test of the fairing was completed, confirming that it met the technical objectives.
