Key developments from the Composites Innovation Cluster programme of projects, funded by the Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative (AMSCI), will be showcased at the Composites UK Industry conference at the National Composites Centre in Bristol from 13-14 May.

The two day event aims to supply delegates with the latest composites industry intelligence. Invited speakers will present on topics such as the current standing of the UK industry, opportunities facing the UK manufacturing sector, industry challenges, successes and how the UK supply chain needs to be developed and supported.

Discussions

The NCC’s Chief Executive Peter Chivers will be discussing the various funding support that is available in the UK to support the supply chain for technology, skills and training development. 

Far-UK, the composite manufacturer, will be discussing how an AMSCI loan enabled the company to set up its new manufacturing facility as part of the Composites Innovation Cluster project work. 

Showcasing work

From a technology angle, EPL Composite Solutions will showcase the work it has been evolving through the LOWPRO and ECOPROCESS projects, looking at developing efficient cost-effective processes and materials for thermoplastic composite applications across a variety of end sectors.

In addition, Altair UK will present some of the work done under the DATACOMP project, which aims to develop a material database to facilitate the use of established virtual prototyping methodologies for composite product development.

Strengthening the UK supply chain

Several projects within the programme focus on the importance of planning for the future, making sure new applications are planned for in terms of technology and skills and in doing so putting the UK one step ahead of overseas competitors.

With this in mind, partners from within the Composites Innovation Cluster (Royal Holloway University of London and Shakspeare Services) will be talking about strengthening the UK supply chain through planning as well as developing the UK workforce. 

www.compositesuk.co.uk