Composite Materials
Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) is a generic term for a composite material comprising a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres, such as glass, carbon or other fibre types. Used for a diverse range of products across different industries, FRP materials offer architects and designers an unparalleled freedom of expression in terms of form and finish, together with outstanding structural efficiency and durability.
Services we offer include:
1. Mould making
Using either our extensive CNC equipment or traditional mould making methods, we can make all manner of structures, including complex compound curves.
2. Manufacturing Techniques
- wet lay-up
- low temperature pre-preg moulding
- resin film infusion (RFI)
- spray lay-up
- vacuum bagging
3. Composite Curing Ovens
We have specialist ovens capable of accurate temperature control for sensitive curing profiles (e.g. for pre-preg moulding and RFI) and sustained operation above 100°C. Our modular oven typically measures 6m x 8m x 3m and can be reconfigured for larger items.
4. Composite Engineering
We can select materials and engineer the composite laminate to satisfy structural, fire and durability performance requirements. We can also select from a wide range of finishes to achieve aesthetic requirements.
Materials:
Resins - polyester, epoxy and bio-resin
Fibres - glass, carbon, natural
Core materials - variety of foam cores as well as natural materials such as cork and balsa wood
Finishes:
Gelcoats
Paint - 'automotive', 'marine' and fluoropolymer paint
5. Prototyping
We offer a prototyping service to help with design development at the earliest stage.
6. Design Consultancy
From prototyping to large scale production, our in-depth engineering skills; broad materials understanding; innovative and pro-active problem solving capabilities; and well honed project management skills, mean that we are ideally placed to offer collaborative relationships with architects and designers.
Examples of projects that have included FRP materials: the Chanel Mobile Art Pavilion; the Serpentine Gallery Pavilion 2009; Athens Olympic Games Opening Ceremony.
To read about these and other projects, along with further in-depth information about using composite materials, please click on the link below to take you to the dedicated FRP section of the website.
