Pronexos, as a pioneer of bespoke manufacturing services, has recently undertaken industrial-scale projects as demand for its specialist knowhow grows. To efficiently produce the complex technology customers need, Pronexos is embracing modern modelling and simulation processes to ensure cost-effective, timely project delivery.
One example of how these processes have been beneficial to the Pronexos team is in the ongoing Ariane 6 project. Pronexos have designed unique Type 4 pressure vessels for Europe’s newest rocket launch system, produced by ArianeGroup. In preparation for the Ariane 6’s maiden flight, Pronexos have undergone phases of physical modelling and digital simulation to ensure their components are safe and reliable.
Rüdiger Lunden, Aerospace Project Manager for Pronexos, claims that this has had a huge impact on the Ariane 6 project. “We produce small-scale models out of spare materials, allowing us to then simulate the prototype with the correct properties and observe how it will function,” says Lunden. “We made multiple simulations, testing out different methods of production, then after confirming our approach we made the first prototype. During this project, we understood how to best wind CFRP over the vessel through simulation. We could also see where high-pressure points in the vessel would be, which allowed us to reinforce certain parts to make it stronger and safer in practice.”
Lunden also explained how modelling and simulation can identify potential problems with a product before it is manufactured. “Our modelling and simulation processes have saved us countless hours and money during this project,” he explains. “At one stage, we missed a particular step in qualification This could have spoilt that qualification, but because we had already produced a model, we could gather practical data to feed our simulation. This made up for the error, as the simulation could then calculate that this would be safe in practice.”
“If we did not have this technology, as well as the specialists who know how to work with the data, that qualification would have been scrapped,” Lunden continues. “That would cost a lot of time and resource, as it would mean we’d have to reapply for qualification and go through all the testing again. That’s more administration fees and documentation to take care of. We also would have had to produce a completely new vessel, and that’s a huge amount of manufacturing work. The modelling and simulation process saves us all of that.”
With constant improvements being made all the time, the Pronexos modelling and simulation processes are changing the face of manufacturing. “Digital simulation is one of the many technologies that we are pioneering within the industry,” Lunden concludes. “Having the opportunity to simulate our ideas reduces costs and wastage, while also ensuring our technology is as safe as it can be. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and services – these processes are directly helping us achieve this.”
Investing in diverse expertise
Pronexos, as a part of enrichment technology manufacturer ETC, offers a wide range of capabilities to a variety of industries. ETC recognises that Pronexos’ modelling and simulation, along with expert knowhow and a specialist skillset, are a valuable asset.
ETC is focused on nurturing important business skills and improving key processes as the company grows, according to its leadership team. In the past, ETC did not prioritize maintaining a diverse portfolio of businesses and offerings. Now, following lessons learned in the last decade, the company recognizes that investing in diversification is vital to ETC’s growth. Pronexos will be a significant part of ETC’s success going forward, and the company plans to continue growing this brand to nurture a diverse range of skills and knowledge.
As Pronexos leads the way in industrial manufacturing processes, it will continue to take on new and exciting advanced engineering projects. To find out how you can contribute to our mission, take a look at our open vacancies or contact us directly.
