Cygnet Texkimp

Developing a groundbreaking 3D winding machine for the global automotive and aerospace industries.

Creation of a new product stream in the speed that we’ve done it is a direct result working with the University and the KTP programme to develop this new technology.

Luke Vardy / Managing Director, Cygnet Texkimp

The composites industry is waiting for technologies that would significantly reduce the cost of production, and this technology will contribute to such an effort where we can mass-produce composites.

Professor Prasad Potluri / Department of Materials, The University of Manchester

Cygnet Texkimp, a specialist machinery manufacturer for the global aerospace, automotive, wind energy and industrial markets, collaborated through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with specialists at the University’s Department of Materials to develop a solution for one of the largest gaps in the composites market: how to create complex components cost-effectively, in high volumes, and at high speeds.

Extending the work of a 9-Axis robotic winding concept first developed by Professor Prasad Potluri, the partnership created the world’s first robotic 3D winding machine capable of making complex parts for the global automotive and aerospace industries. 

As well as enhancing Cygnet Texkimp’s product offering with new filament winding technologies, the project has delivered many offer benefits, including the permanent employment of the KTP Associate into Texkimp’s R&D Centre and receiving the prestigious Composites UK award for Innovation in Manufacturing.