Grunewald GmbH & Co. KG is an innovative manufacturer specializing in toolmaking, special machine construction, and automation technology, as well as a leading expert in thin-walled aluminum structural castings.
To ensure high-quality standards, the company relies on our VD810 compact vacuum meter for leak testing in the production of aircraft components made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP).
The Manufacturing Process
The production of CFRP components requires the use of so-called curing tools. In this process, prepreg material—a pre-impregnated carbon fiber fabric with resin—is layered into the desired shape and sealed with an airtight film. A vacuum pump extracts air from the layup, pressing the material firmly onto the mold.
In the subsequent autoclave process, both the mold and prepreg material are heated to 180 °C while simultaneously being subjected to high pressure. The heat liquefies the resin in the prepreg material, and the pressure ensures an even distribution of the resin between the carbon fiber layers, eliminating air inclusions. During the final holding cycle, the component hardens and can then be removed from the mold. The result is a lightweight yet highly durable CFRP component.
Reliable Leak-Testing with the VD810
To ensure the highest quality, Grunewald tests vacuum lines and tool surfaces using the VD810 compact vacuum meter. Even minor air inclusions between fibers and layers could compromise structural integrity, making precise leak testing crucial. The VD810 reliably measures absolute and relative pressure in the rough vacuum range from 2000 to 1 mbar (abs.) and -1060 to +1200 mbar (rel.)
Innovative Technology for Industrial Applications
Equipped with a chemically resistant piezo-ceramic sensor with FKM sealing, the VD810 is resistant to contamination, making it ideal for demanding industrial applications. The direct display of measured values and pressure graphs enable precise on-site monitoring.
Designed for ease of use, the device features an intuitive membrane keypad and menu-guided operation. The integrated data logger records multiple measurement series with their RTC data, which can be easily transferred to a PC or tablet via USB-C or optional Bluetooth® LE. An intelligent energy management system ensures extended battery life, with charging available via a USB-C port on a PC or with standard USB power adapters.
With the VD810, Grunewald achieves reliable and efficient leak testing, ensuring the highest quality standards in CFRP production.
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