Composites seminar set to reveal all

The seminar, which is being supported by the National Composites Network and the GTMA, will allow those new to the materials, and those hoping to win more business in the area, to meet, and learn from, a range of experts from both the commercial and technical sides of the industry. Unlike many other areas within UK manufacturing, the composites industry is continuing to grow as the materials are used increasingly to replace metals and wood. New applications continue to be found as the properties of the materials are developed, especially in the aerospace, automotive and marine industries. The changing patterns in materials use offer both threats and opportunities to component manufacturers and the toolmakers that support them. In particular, companies that have been hit by the recent decline in UK toolmaking could find new opportunities in the composites area. Their skills in producing complex injection moulds could be transferred relatively easily to the manufacture of tooling for compression moulding and reaction injection moulding of composites. Similarly, firms that have traditionally made models and patterns for the metals industry could turn to producing similar items for composites manufacture. The presentations will be followed by a buffet lunch, after which delegates will have opportunities for informal discussions with the speakers and to tour Delcam’s toolroom. Contact Lisa Rogers, senior marketing executive, on 0121 683 1082 or email her at: lar@delcam.com