NCC - Your comprehensive Resource
The National Composite Center (NCC) is a comprehensive resource for closed molding technology and development including Vacuum Infusion, Resin transfer Molding (RTM), and Structural Reaction Injection Molding (SRIM) processes. Through hands-on application, NCC has equipped itself with practical know-how in each of the closed molding techniques and processes used in the market today. Development work and prototype production have helped NCC create bagging techniques that eliminate tedious handwork while delivering consistency and repeatability.
NCC organized closed molding into three major categories:
- Vacuum Infusion - one sided tooling that uses a vacuum and atmospheric pressure to move resin
- RTM - two sided hard tooling with greater than-atmosphere pressure to push the resin
- RTM Light-allows manufacturers to switch from open molding to RTM Light processes while keeping thickness and fiber volumes the same
Educating the Industry
NCC experts can discuss both generic and patented technologies and how they can be applied to customers’ products. NCC helps companies select and implement the right processes for the right jobs. The 7,500 square foot closed molding cell is equipped with 40 foot by 14 foot molding tables. The Cell also indlucdes a 490 cubic foot digitally controlled oven, 300 ton RTM press, multiple vacuum systems, and a resin mixing station.
To further advance composite technology, NCC has teamed with Ashland Corporation to establish a Closed Molding Cell. Aside from demonstrations and special training classes (training is now available upon request in order to meet the needs of the individual or company), the cell has helped to educate the industry about improved closed molding techniques. NCC, assisted by Fiber, Core, and Resin Suppliers, has established this special facility within its headquarters and manufacturing building. Closed molding delivers higher part quality by providing reproducible parts with low void content and near zero emissions which provide for a cleaner environment.
Other Support Services
NCC provides critical prototype and on-site expertise for both RTM and vacuum infusion processes. Incorporating high tech manufacturing techniques like closed molding can involve complicated set-ups and repetitive development steps. NCC provides comprehensive production solutions and services in closed molding to help companies achieve the advantages necessary for survival in today’s competitve environment.
Our Closed Molding Center Is Available For Rental
Interested in holding your own demonstration or have special fabrication needs? NCC’s Closed Molding Center is available for rental. The facility includes:
- 5000 square foot infusion cell
- 40 foot by 14 foot molding table
- Two five foot by nine foot molding tables
- 430 foot3 digitally controlled oven
- Multiple vacuum systems
- Resin mixing station
For additional amenities you may also want to take a look at NCC’s Education and Conference Center. The Conference Center offers state-of-the-art capabilities to a wide range of groups including catering, classrooms and a 250-seat auditorium.
For more details on closed molding, facility rental, specific project quotes or our classes, contact Alan Fatz at 937-297-9461 or email him at afatz@compositecenter.org