The demonstrations will feature three processes:
- the new Flex Moulding process from MVP;
- the vacuum infusion process (VIP); and
- light resin transfer moulding (Light RTM).
The MVP Flex Moulding Process has been developed to overcome the challenges of using film infusion moulding. MVP offers a comprehensive package of injection systems, accessories and patent-pending seals, plus training support, to help manufacturers optimise infusion while better controlling the production process.
At IBEX, MVP’s Flex Moulding team will build the vacuum bag and the resulting boat part in front of a live audience, illustrating the process’ ease of use, especially for manufacturers new to closed mould processes.
The live presentation of VIP the process will be used to inject half of a 16 ft boat hull.
“Cutting the hull in half enables manufacturers to see how resin flows through laminates quickly and efficiently,” says Marcy Offner, marketing manager at Composites One. “Attendees will also have an unobstructed view of resin flow at the Light RTM demo, thanks to a special see-through glass panel.”
Additional closed mould educational sessions will take place at the Composites One booth, number 1527. On Tuesday 28 September, a workshop will focus on Light RTM tooling, covering the materials needed, waxing techniques and tooling construction, along with examples of successes and failures. A workshop on Wednesday 29 September will feature a comparison of the most popular closed mould processes to help manufacturers decide which one is best for their operation.
The live demonstrations are the culmination of a joint effort between distributor Composites One, equipment supplier MVP, the Closed Mold Alliance and its supplier partners.
IBEX – the International Boatbuilders Exhibition and Conference – takes place in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, on 28-30 September.