Depestele invests in an “interlock” loom to develop the next generation of Lincore reinforcements
Within the Flax3D project, supported by ADEME, the partners CMP Composite, SM France and ENSAIT are collaborating with Depestele for the development of new reinforcements, particularly suited for applications in the fields of transportation and ballistic.
In order to carry out this industrial project, Depestele has decided to invest in a highly innovative “interlock” loom, which is unique in France. This loom can produce 3 dimensional thick technical fabrics. It will improve the impact resistance of the composite parts, while controlling production costs by reducing cutting and lamination operations.
These interlock fabrics will be made out of flax fibres from Normandy and processed close to their growing location. This is a new step in the diversification of the Depestele company, following the design and start-up of both a complete flax fibres transformation line and a Lincore roving preparation line in Bourguébus (Normandy).
The aim of this innovative approach is to develop flax reinforcements for the composite materials sector and to reduce Depestele’s dependence on the traditional textile sector. The target markets include ballistic, transportation, construction, and energy, for companies looking for more environmentally friendly solutions.
Leader in innovation since more than 10 years, Depestele invests at least 3% of its turnover each year in research and development to design new products, such as the Lincore rovings range, and develop its future markets.
