Pioneering Sustainability: Advanced Composite Technologies Propel Formula E Racing Forward
30. September 2024 | News
Teijin has teamed up with Germany's herone GmbH and the UK's Envision Racing to develop a composite wishbone which has the capability to be used in a Formula E racing car using Tenax™ ThermoPlastics. This collaborative effort not only leverages cutting-edge materials and advanced manufacturing techniques but also highlights how innovative partnerships can drive sustainable solutions for the future.
Wuppertal, Germany, 30. September, 2024: The new component is specifically designed to maximize performance while minimizing weight – a crucial advantage in the highly competitive world of Formula E. By utilizing recycled materials from the aerospace industry and implementing herone's innovative pressing process, the partners are setting a strong example of environmental consciousness and technological excellence.
Multiple demonstrator parts were produced utilizing Tenax™ ThermoPlastic UniDirectional (TPUD) tapes. The material was braided to form the rod structure of the component. Recycled offcuts from part manufacturing in the aerospace industry were used for the functional elements. Those offcuts were injection molded to sockets which are needed for load introduction into the rod structure. herone’s innovative pressing process then compression molded the braids and at the same time co-consolidated the sockets into the rod structure to form the final part. All materials in this study were based on PPS polymer - thus making it attractive for further end-of-life recycling. A perfect match for the highly innovative Formula E series and the sustainability approach of the Envision Racing team.
The wishbone is currently used in Envision Racing’s show car, which tours the world for various team sustainability initiatives and PR events.
The use of these advanced materials makes it possible to reduce weight, minimize emissions, and increase performance at the same time. The combination of design and functionality opens new possibilities for future developments in the field of motorsport and beyond. We look forward to continuing to develop innovative solutions based on thermoplastic composites together with our partners and customers.
About Teijin Carbon Europe GmbH
Teijin Carbon Europe GmbH is part of the Teijin Group, which is represented by more than 170 companies in over 20 countries. Teijin is one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon fibers and carbon fiber-based materials. Teijin Carbon Europe GmbH employs around 500 people at its two sites in Heinsberg-Oberbruch and Wuppertal. Teijin Carbon develops solutions for the aerospace, automotive, energy, electronics and sporting goods industries using high-performance technologies in an international environment.
About herone
herone - we are a TU Dresden spin-off and founded herone in 2018 as a team of aerospace and lightweight engineers, enthusiastic about questioning the status quo and bringing superior thermoplastic composite profiles into serial applications. We innovate composites for sustainable living. We develop and produce ultra-light, recyclable composite profiles with tailor-made properties and functions. Our motivation is to offer solutions to overcome borders and contribute to a cleaner future. Our technological core is the herone technology. It combines automated textile technology with an efficient pressing process.
About Envision Racing
Envision Racing Formula E Team is one of the founding and most successful outfits in the FIA Formula E World Championship and the current World Champions. Owned by Envision, Envision Racing has sustainability running through its DNA and was created for one simple purpose, to inspire generations to tackle climate change and transition to e-mobility and renewable energy. Both on and off the track, Envision Racing focus on accelerating and promoting innovation and change that will help us to live more sustainably, using their Race Against Climate Change™ program to mobilise fans around the world to be part of this change.
For further information visit www.envision-racing.com
Press contact
Teijin Carbon Europe GmbH
Katja Cohrs
Kasinostr. 19–21
42103 Wuppertal
Germany