Achieving both lightweight performance and high rigidity is a critical challenge in transportation equipment and precision component development. CFRTP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastics) enables fiber-orientation-based design, making it possible to secure sufficient stiffness even in thin-wall components.

By incorporating rib structures, the balance between strength and weight reduction can be further optimized.

In many conventional cases, ribs in CFRTP parts are formed using resin only. However, Kawamura Kikai Co., Ltd. forms ribs directly within the mold, allowing fibers to be integrated into the rib structure. This fiber-involved rib formation significantly enhances strength.

【Potential of Thin-Wall Molding】
CFRTP softens when heated and solidifies upon cooling, enabling re-forming through reheating even after initial molding. This property contributes to recyclability and reuse.

Thin-wall molding is achievable, and by optimizing fiber orientation:
Strength can be maintained
Weight can be reduced
Structural efficiency can be improved

【The Role of Rib Structures】
Ribs serve as reinforcement structures that increase the overall rigidity of a component.

In CFRTP parts, combining rib structures with fiber orientation design allows stress to be directed toward required load-bearing directions. This makes it possible to:
Improve stiffness without significantly increasing thickness
Reduce overall weight
Enhance mechanical performance in targeted areas

When ribs are molded with embedded fibers rather than resin alone, higher structural performance can be achieved.

【Equipment and Molding Conditions】
Kawamura Kikai Co., Ltd. is equipped with:
A press machine with a maximum capacity of 200 tons
Molding temperatures up to approximately 400°C
Maximum mold size of 1200 × 1500 mm
Typical product size guideline of up to 500 × 500 mm

These capabilities enable precise thin-wall and rib-integrated composite molding.

【Quality Verification and Evaluation System】
After molding, dimensional accuracy is verified using:
3D coordinate measuring machines
Image-based dimensional measurement systems

In addition, CAE analysis conducted in collaboration with external research institutions is used to simulate:
Rib height
Draft angles
Moldability and material flow behavior

Simulation results are compared with actual production trials to ensure reliability. Secondary processing is handled in cooperation with partner companies, enabling support through to final assembly.

【Summary】
CFRTP thin-wall rib molding is a technology that simultaneously achieves lightweight performance and structural rigidity.

From design-stage consultation to prototype development, Kawamura Kikai Co., Ltd. supports engineers facing challenges in thin-wall structures and rib design.

For developers seeking optimized lightweight solutions with high stiffness, this approach represents a highly effective option.

【Contact Information】
Kawamura Kikai Co., Ltd.
Head Office: 2-4 Shimizu-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 【Composite Division】
Hanazono Factory: 10 Kitane, Fukaya-shi, Saitama 【Metal Press Division】
Website: https://www.kawamura-kikai.co.jp
Inquiry / Quotation: https://www.kawamura-kikai.co.jp/contact/
Please mention that you saw us on “Emidas” when making your inquiry.