Hörmann Engineering Concludes Three-Year PULPRO SMC Project on Automated Composite Manufacturing
BY Composights
Published: 22 Jun 2026
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H rmann Engineering, a Germany-based mid-sized industrial engineering company specializing in composite processing technologies and manufacturing automation, has concluded its 3 year PULPRO SMC research project focused on advancing automated composite manufacturing systems for industrial applications.
The project, which reached its final project meeting in mid-June, focused on improving processing efficiency for sheet molding compound (SMC) and thermoplastic composite systems, with an emphasis on reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining structural performance and repeatability in automated production environments.
A key outcome of the research was the validation of simplified processing routes for composite manufacturing, demonstrating that certain thermoplastic and SMC systems can be produced with reduced process steps while achieving industrial-grade mechanical properties. The project also reported weight savings of up to 20% compared with conventional steel construction, highlighting the potential of composite systems in lightweight structural applications.
The development targeted improvements in material flow behavior, cycle time reduction, and process stability in automated manufacturing environments, supporting broader industry efforts to increase scalability and efficiency in composite part production.
H rmann Engineering stated that the results demonstrate the potential for more efficient industrial implementation of composite technologies, particularly in applications requiring cost-effective, repeatable, and scalable manufacturing processes. The PULPRO SMC project was funded under the KoPa4Mobility programme by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, with support from T V Rheinland Research and Innovation Management.
The conclusion of the project reflects continued industry focus on scalable composite processing technologies, where automation, material efficiency, and simplified production routes are becoming increasingly important for industrial deployment.
Source: H rmann Engineering | News
