The German Engineering Association VDMA has put in place a new network for machinery manufacturers engaged in the development and production of technologies for the manufacture and quality control of composite materials. Lightweight construction is a central challenge in design engineering, and composites are key materials for fuel-saving transport equipment as well as for sustainable sources of energy. The technology chain for composites begins with the manufacture of reinforcing fibers from glass, carbon and other materials. The textile reinforcing structures are then embedded in a plastic or concrete matrix to create semi-finished and finished products. The VDMA decided to set up the VDMA Composite Technology grouping with a view to bringing together the technologies for the manufacture and quality control of composites.”

A meeting will be held in Frankfurt am Main on November 19, 2010 to exchange experiences and establish the future work program for the composites forum.