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Sunseeker
International Move to Closed Moulding Composite plastics are used for the majority of the structures ranging from small components such as doors and hatch covers to hulls and decks in excess of 30 metres. Many of the smaller more complex structures have been produced using open lay-up techniques requiring a disproportionate labour content to achieve the necessary high structural and cosmetic standards. Over the last year Composite Integration Ltd has worked closely with Sunseeker to implement and equip a dedicated production facility specifically to manufacture these components ‘in house’ using closed moulding processes. Light-weight vacuum RTM was chosen as the most suitable method in order that tooling costs could be kept to a minimum and mould handling problems minimised.
Sunseeker manufactured suitable patterns from which tooling was produced by Composite Integration at their factory in Saltash. Technicians from Sunseeker were trained in the use of the tooling, equipment and materials enabling efficient production to commence shortly after delivery. As well as supplying design assistance, tooling and process training, Composite Integration also assisted with materials selection and supplied equipment including injection valves, vacuum accessories and a complete two-stage vacuum system necessary for this type of processing. The vacuum system comprised a high flow 650 litre/min rotary vane vacuum pump producing a vacuum level of 100mbar abs for peripheral clamping and a regulated level for cavity vacuum adjustable from atmosphere to 100mbar abs. As a result of the move to
closed moulding, Sunseeker have realised improvements in product quality and
significant reductions in product costs resulting in rapid payback times for
investment in equipment.
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