3724/AMRC/JS/23 - Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Tape Winding Equipment Upgrade

3724/AMRC/JS/23 - Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Tape Winding Equipment UpgradeThe University of Sheffield wishes to invite tenders for a Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Tape Winding Equipment Upgrade on behalf of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, at Catcliffe, South Yorkshire.Scope of RequirementThe AMRC Composite Centre (general information about the facility can be found at https://www.amrc.co.uk/facilities/composite-centre) has been performing research and development in filament winding since 2012, a technology which has proven very popular with both AMRC partner companies and local businesses. The original facility allowed for the winding of thermoset prepregs and wet-winding at standard tensions but did not have the full capability for melting & processing of thermoplastics.The AMRC now has a requirement for an upgrade to its fibre reinforced thermoplastic tape winding capabilities, relating to pressure vessel (PV) winding in particular.The equipment will be used on projects that work with both academia and industry to deliver cutting edge research into thermoplastic composites.Interlocked Laser Safe EnclosureAn Interlocked Laser Safe Enclosure houses the entire system so the upgraded system must fit inside the enclosure. Please see Appendix A which shows the current dimensions of the enclosure.Upgrade We are looking for an innovative solution which is expected to comprise the following generic elements, but other solutions will be considered:-● Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Tape Winding Head capable of accommodating both the existing 2 kW IPG Photonics Laser and HUMM3 Heating System (albeit not at the same time).● A new Robot able to handle the Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Tape Winding Head ● Spindles to mount the pressure vessel being manufactured● Associated software and equipment controller(s) for the operation of the equipment and tape planning Tender Process and Documentation:This procurement is open procedure voluntarily conducted in accordance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015The ITT can be downloaded by registering and expressing your interest on the University`s e-tendering system https://in-tendhost.co.uk/SheffieldIf you have any questions or comments in relation to this tender they must be submitted via the In-tend System, this can be accessed at https://in-tendhost.co.uk/SheffieldCompleted tenders must be returned through the same e-tendering system.Closing date for receipt of tenders: Friday 9th June 2023 at 12 noon (UK time).