During Science Week, we were very fortunate to have Joe Bryant from Aeromech Industries deliver an inspiring workshop for some senior students about composite materials & how they are used in the aviation industry.
Joe gave a full demonstration of how a small part from an Airbus is created and manufactured; using the same tools, techniques & machines that are used in industry. Students worked in groups to make the same part; gaining ‘hands on’ experience of how composite
materials are manipulated & formed into intricate shapes that provide both strong & light weight parts for various vehicles & systems in the aviation industry.
During the curing process of student’s composite material part, Joe delved into the theoretical application of composite materials & the fascinating possibilities where the industry is taking composites into the future. Joe highlighted the importance of quality control & inspection methods, that are crucial to ensure the integrity & reliability of final products. Joe discussed various jobs & careers that incorporate this technology; not just in the aviation industry, but other industries that requires strong light weight parts to be manufactured with precision, like high-performance sports equipment.
At the conclusion of the workshop, students got see their final part cured & conducted a quality control visual assessment of their part to ensure proper consolidation of the carbon fibre & resin had occurred. Each student had huge success with the process & manufacturing of their part and thoroughly enjoyed the workshop.
Thanks again to Joe Bryant and his team at Aeromech Industries for providing this opportunity to our students and introducing them to composite materials and possible career pathways for the future.