Written by Jonny Williamson
FORMAX, among other services, specialise in the production of lightweight carbon fibre multiaxials and highly engineered glass fibre and aramid fibres. FORMAX’s multiaxial reinforcements, (fabrics made from multiple piles of parallel fibres laying in different orientations and stitchbonded to polyester thread to form a fabric), are used to manufacture components for the aerospace, automotive, marine and industrial sectors.
The company has recently completed the installation of its new Karl Mayer 100” Malitronic Multiaxial machine, which is already running at full operational capacity. The Malitronic machine enables glass capacity to be increased by 25 percent by being able to produce 100” rolls weighing up to four tonnes. Coupled with the machines optimal weft insertion and layer fixation, as well as an average speed twice that of conventional 50” machines, an equivalent capacity of four x 50” glass multiaxial can be produced without compromising fabric uniformity or technical quality.
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Installed in a 500m² production hall at the company’s Leicester headquarters, the refurbished building features advanced temperature and humidity controls to produce glass reinforcements of the highest quality.
Requiring specialist operators, FORMAX has managed to recruit and train a dedicated team to operate and support the machines initial installation, daily functions and upkeep.
The commissioning of new production equipment, such as the Malitronic Multiaxial machine, reflects FORMAX’s growth strategy for 2012, bolstered by continued growth in the glass fibre multiaxial market and 30 percent growth overall during 2011.
Managing Director of FORMAX, Oliver Wessely, comments on the growth strategy:
“With ambitious plans for expansion during 2012 and a developed portfolio of unique materials, FORMAX will continue to satisfy our global customers’ demands. We understand the design complexities manufacturers face but also appreciate the need for cost efficiency. We are confident we can deliver a competitive edge with our bespoke solutions.”
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