At NCC, our team combines its in-depth knowledge about material, design, processing and post-processing of thermoplastic composite tapes, long fiber thermoplastic composites, and glass mat thermoplastics with field experience to help manufacturers make production level parts. In addition, NCC has established and advanced specialized techniques in extrusion compression molding of long fiber thermoplastics, melt impregnation of thermoplastic composites, and rapid fiber preforming to compliment and support its thermoplastics capabilities.
After plasticating the LFT material, NCC technicians placed the charge on the tool just prior to initiating the compression molding process. The redesigned LFT bus battery door provided North American Bus Industries with a rib stiffened single component structure. The paint procedure developed at NCC also allowed NABI to achieve a good surface finish. Click here for full story Thermoplastics Sept06
Using Wright Capital Project funds, NCC established a Thermoplastic Composites Technology Center in 2003 which includes a prototype production line and other equipment critical to scale-up and fabrication of thermoplastic composite parts. NCC’s breakthrough advances in this field have contributed to significant changes in processing methods and helped thermoplastics technologies penetrate a broad range of markets from automotive to appliance, construction, medical, safety, recreation, furniture, sports, industrial, and other commercial uses.
NCC’s unique value – process development expertise and access to specialized equipment – also allows manufacturers to offset costs by providing a supportive environment fully equipped with the necessary processing tools. In addition, the Center is actively involved with thermoplastic composites projects and has built a vital network of academic, government and commercial partners.
For more information about NCC’s LFT capabilities, services or collaborations contact Lisa Novelli at lnovelli@compositecenter.org.