Agile Ultrasonics and CDME come together to strengthen composite manufacturing
Agile Ultrasonics, a Columbus-based business focused on enabling advancements in composite material manufacturing, has contracted with Ohio State’s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME) to propel technological innovation. The partnership will begin with Agile Ultrasonics working with CDME engineers to develop critical composite processing capabilities used in military armor.
The project has widespread projected applications with multiple composites, including carbon fiber, aramids, fiberglass, and other materials used in aerospace, automotive, and armor markets.
Agile Ultrasonics applies a patented method of consolidating composite materials using ultrasonic energy. A composite is made when two or more different materials are joined to create a stronger structure. Their advanced materials manufacturing process aims to improve quality, reduce weight, increase strength, and progress composite material innovation.
Jim Stratton, the President and CEO of Agile Ultrasonics, believes collaboration with CDME will further develop this approach.
“Our goal in working with CDME is to enable a manufacturing process that can produce void-free composites and yield lighter, stronger, and less expensive components while improving product quality and opening the door to innovation,” Stratton shared. “We see the future of ultrasonic processing in composites allowing 3D shaping, 3D grading, and embedded technologies within reach.”
With Stratton at the helm, Agile Ultrasonics opened shop in 2017. The company licensed patents from Ohio State in 2019, which the company has since commercialized. At the time, CDME worked on developing initial research into a methodology better fit for commercialization.
Stratton specifically sought out CDME as a continued collaborator based on the opportunity to access the expertise and leadership of CDME Program Manager John Bockbrader. Bockbrader is a nationally recognized expert in armor development and has experience working with early-stage growth companies.
Agile Ultrasonic expects to leverage insight gained in concert with CDME on future projects, applying these tactics to carbon fiber, aramids, and other thermoset and thermoplastic materials used in commercial and defense applications.
“This technology has the potential to be a game-changer in terms of how composites are converted from rolls of material into critical components across multiple industries,” Bockbrader said. ”We look forward to working with Agile Ultrasonics to help develop their concept into a commercially viable technology.”
To learn more about Agile Ultrasonics visit www.agileultrasonics.com.
