Massivit has expanded its RapidWings manufacturing platform for aerospace and defence (A&D) by delivering composite tooling services in North America.
Through the company’s collaboration with manufacturing and design firm Artek, the RapidWings Platform will provide on-demand large-format tooling services, prototyping and demonstrations for aerospace and defence customers at the Artek facility to 'significantly accelerate composite manufacturing in North America.'
The Artek collaboration complements RapidWings Platform’s existing operations and expands the availability of RapidWings Platform’s services for North American customers. Massivit says that it will provide 'high-speed digital composite tooling' designed to reduce traditional tooling lead times from months to days, allowing A&D manufacturers to overcome recognised production backlogs.
At the core of the RapidWings North America operation lies Massivit’s Cast-In-Motion (CIM) tooling technology that combines advanced additive manufacturing with dual-component materials to deliver large isotropic moulds, masters, jigs, and fixtures as well as mandrels for hollow composites. This provides composite manufacturers with a local, on-demand service that is said to reduce tooling time by 90%, allowing them to overcome offshoring and supply chain constraints.
The RapidWings Platform’s services include design and digital tooling through tool finishing, full-scale prototypes, and demonstrations.
Unlike conventional tooling methods that involve modelling foams, tooling boards, or 3D-printed thermoplastics, CIM technology delivers isotropic production tools that are autoclave-ready and suitable for a range of temperatures. Co-developed by Sika and Massivit, CIM casting materials are said to provide 'exceptional dimensional stability, thermal resistance, adhesion, and surface quality.' CIM moulds can withstand hundreds of cycles, thereby addressing the rising demand for mass-produced drones, airframes, and composite structures.
Yossi Azarzar, CEO of Massivit, said: “Our collaboration with ARTEK expands the availability of RapidWings tooling services in North America and complements the broader growth strategy of the RapidWings platform, including initiatives previously launched in Europe. U.S. military branches, OEMs and defence contractors are striving to clear production backlogs caused by surging demand that outpaces legacy manufacturing capabilities. RapidWings is transforming Aerospace and Defence infrastructure across multiple regions, allowing both governments and industry to accomplish sovereign, autonomous production at the point of need.”
Sam Reiser, CEO of ARTEK LLC, added: “The ability to produce isotropic tooling in an additive manner allows for a faster and more efficient approach to tooling. We are excited to be a part of Massivit’s RapidWings expansion, supporting US manufacturing to reduce lead times and accelerate companies’ ability to develop and innovate.”
