Maximising the long-term performance of composite structures, or operation and sustainment, requires correct selection of materials, implementation of monitoring technologies, an in-depth understanding of in-service behaviour, development of maintenance processes and training of maintenance operators. Unique expertise in these fields places ACS Australia at the leading edge of new technology implementation.

We offer evaluation, specification and implementation of commercially available Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) sensors in practical composite structures, including repair and critical area monitoring and entire structure monitoring.

ACS Australia staff have a record of success in the innovation of repair of composite structures and developing composite repairs for metallic structures. Examples include the inspection and repair of damaged storage tanks, aircraft, helicopters and ships. We incorporate design for matched performance, in-situ manufacturing, quality assessment and certification in our repair solutions.

We provide technical advice on the most suitable type of repair to damaged composites and the rehabilitation of ageing infrastructure.

State-of-the-art equipment is available for the non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of damage in monolithic and sandwich composites.

We also have extensive knowledge of the application of functional coatings, and in-house developed surfacing technology, providing options for performance improvement of composites and development of multifunctional structures. Examples include integrated coatings for improved wear performance; reduced moisture uptake; integrated electrical conductivity and surface protection systems for fire protection; spray-on metal coatings and application technology for polymer surface coatings.