In our field, being close to 99% perfection is not enough. What we can do is bring a part of the remaining percentage.”
A major contract that materializes years of exchanges. “Three years ago, we presented our technology to them,” recounts André Bertin, president and founder of Coexpair. “It’s a technology they knew 30 years ago in a preliminary version. But they didn’t think it was possible to push it as far as we have done.” Indeed, while composite materials are widely used in aeronautics, Coexpair stands out for the process implemented by its machines.
While most of the industry uses autoclave curing, the Namur-based company uses closed aluminum molds under pressure. A process that requires less energy for manufacturing a part, and is particularly more precise.
“In our field, being close to 99% perfection is not enough. What we can do is bring a part of the remaining percentage, while being 30% cheaper.”
Arguments that have already proven themselves. A few years ago, Coexpair’s expertise was utilized by Spirit AeroSystems in manufacturing the A320 aircraft’s air brakes, the world’s best-selling commercial aircraft. This innovation led to relocating production from Malaysia to Scotland.
Context: Coexpair is a Belgian company specializing in composite manufacturing processes.
Aiming to consolidate Coexpair’s advantage in a highly competitive sector, the company plans to export its technology globally while establishing a center of excellence dedicated to advanced composite manufacturing processes in Belgium.
“It is essential for our technology to be used everywhere to maintain our leading position,” emphasizes André Bertin.
The impact of this project extends beyond Coexpair to the entire Belgian economy, specifically Wallonia. Most of the value of the machines is created within the Belgian fabric, with a focus on utilizing local suppliers and manufacturers to support the production process.
Moreover, the benefits go beyond the defense sector as a representative from Lockheed Martin confirmed that the technology could be applied to other industrial platforms during the Bedex event. The civil sector stands to benefit significantly from this technology, reducing the aircraft’s weight, thereby decreasing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Additionally, the shift towards less energy-consuming production methods significantly reduces waste production.
