Reinforced plastics equipment.

ACCURATE MACHINE TOOL

New Acc-u-wind filament winder has 60-in. carriage travel, traverse speeds up to 110 ft/min, spindle speed to 250 rpm, and 110 in.-lb of torque. Carriage rides on hardened ways and is driven by a ball screw, which offers position accuracy better than 0.003 in. Controls based on 486 PC. Options include addition of third and fourth axes to the basic two-axis configuration, resin baths, bulk delivery systems, and NEMA-12 enclosures for computer controls.

ADM-NORTH AMERICA

Continuous casting machines for polymer concrete, cultured marble, and epoxy electrical insulators. Logo line of machines includes four standard models for outputs of 4.4 to 44 lb/min. Resin, catalyst, and accelerator are metered by separate electrically driven pumps. Units have PLC controls and fast cleanout system said to consume little solvent. Options include lifting/turning system to feed molds, multicolor feeding, heating for filler and resins, and a densifier with continuous air evacuation for solid-surface countertops. Also spray-up systems for gelcoat and chop.

ADVANCED MATERIALS INC. (AMI)

Vacuum-only closed-molding system does not require the pumping system necessary for RTM and VRTM. It uses lightweight molds, which can be lifted easily without hoist. Low-cost vacuum pump operates off shop compressed air.

Also impregnators, prepreg, and tape wet-out systems. Manufacturing training programs and consulting available.

ADVANCED PROCESS TECHNOLOGY

Wide range of manual and fully automatic meter/mix/dispense equipment for plural-component RTM and RIM nylon, PUR, epoxy and polyester. "Flying Wedge" features variable ratio, temperature control to 300 F, vacuum degassing, positive-displacement metering, and output rates from 5 g/min to 70 lb/min. Systems process heavily filled abrasive materials and unfilled formulations for open casting, pressure injection into closed molds, high-vacuum potting, and filament winding.

ALTEK PREFORMER CORP.

Custom-designed, manual and robotic directed-fiber preform machines. Computer control can provide variable speed and direction of screen rotation, variable pressure drop, variable glass and binder delivery rates, and adjustable cure times and temperatures.

AMERICAN GFM 

CompForm automated preforming process for RTM, SRIM and all LCM processes. Process allows use of virtually any reinforcing material to make highly complex preforms. Process does not use heat to stabilize preform. Company provides manufacturing systems that include high-speed ultrasonic cutting machines. Process provides capability for high-volume and net-shape preforms and allows engineering fabrics, fasteners and core materials to be included in the preform assembly.

AUTOMATION DYNAMICS

Filament winding machines up to 12-ft diam. x 40 ft long, either mechanically synchronized or with full computer control. Mechanical machines are generally limited to three axes for high-speed winding in medium-to-long production runs. Computer-controlled machines have up to six axes. extreme flexibility, and ability for rapid product changeover. Also low-cost, lab-scale, full-featured, three-axis, computer-controlled winder.

Modularly designed prepreg-tape production lines allow choice of exact features needed. On-line or off-line hot-melt coaters can be incorporated.

Fiber delivery creels supplied for filament winding or prepreg-tape lines.

Line of three- and five-axis tape-placement machines can be built to handle thermoset or thermoplastic impregnated tow and tape.

BEDFORD REINFORCED PLASTICS, INC.

Pultrusion processor builds its own pultrusion machinery and supplies systems to other processors overseas and to U.S. firms only for captive production. System includes roving racks and mat creels, resin bath with resin recirculation, and die station with hydraulic lift table that provides die/puller alignment at the touch of a button. Caterpillar-style puller has variable speed from 5 to 48 in./min, 18,000-lb pulling force, variable clamping pressure, adjustable-position pulling cleats, and pneumatic raise/lower function on upper track system. Traveling saw table has pneumatic clamping.

Model 240 has 24 x 8 in. envelope; model 360 a 36 x 8 in. envelope; and model 480 a 48 x 8 in. envelope. Tooling and prototype production testing available.

BINKS MANUFACTURING CO.

Internal- or external-mix, high-transfer-efficiency guns for spraying resins, gel coat or chop; RTM systems; roller impregnators; and hand-held resin rollers.

Catalyst slave-pump or pressure-tank feed systems can be combined with various air- and hydraulic-powered pumps.

Mat impregnators include an economical model with a hand crank to dispense mat from a roll between two impregnating rollers and onto a take-up roll. Resin is hand poured from a bucket into the adjustable gap between impregnating rolls. A more elaborate model can have an air motor and foot pedal in place of hand crank and allows automatic pumping of continuously catalyzed resin through a perforated metal pipe mounted over the gap. Automatic flushing can be provided.

BINKS MANUFACTURING CO. POLY-CRAFT SYSTEMS DIV.

Spray-up systems for reinforced polyester and gelcoat. High-volume, low-pressure (HVLP), airless and air-assisted/airless spray systems use lightweight guns for simplicity and easy maintenance. All spray guns have two catalyst orifices, allowing use of undiluted catalyst. Systems feature Unison precision catalyst slave pump or optional C-400-N catalyzer. Both are infinitely variable and totally linear in delivery, with no lead or lag.

Basic Gelcoater has pump with only three reciprocating parts; can support up to 0.031-in. fluid-tip orifice with no "winking" or pulsing.

Modular gel-coat system sprays up to 12 colors; mounted on 7-ft-long wheeled chassis, which is easily moved and eliminates costly in-house plumbing. Components include the HVLP G-755 air-assisted/airless gun and C-400-N catalyzer. External-mix gun requires no flushing after use. Supplied for each color is model P-15 pancake 15:1 pump with individual high-pressure filter, air controls, material pickup assemblies, and quick-disconnect fluid hoses. Central silencer eliminates pump exhaust noise. Each station built as a closed loop with recirculating mode to prevent settling. System uses shop air and can be modified to allow spraying different colors at the same time.

For granite effect, model 205-1000 Grani-Tec gelcoat system can handle up to 60% solids. High filler loadings permitted by automatic recirculation mode, which eliminates clogging of spray nozzles and hoses.

Uni-Roll pressure roller system features the precision Unison Catalyst Slave Ensemble. System is internal-mix with solvent or air purge and has a convenient on/off run/purge single-lever selector. Pressure roller assembly is lightweight and available with or without a counter balance boom.

BONNOT CO.

Preform extrusion machines for reinforced molding compounds.

I.G. BRENNER CO.

Fiberglass roving cutters in a variety of sizes and lengths to cut fibers 1/8 to 2 in. long. Most popular unit is model 800A with 4.5-in. and 7-in.-long cutter rolls. Available to 72-in. in width.

Preforming machines, either single-station or rotary, with turntables of 24-100 in. diam. Directed-fiber or automatic plenum-chamber versions.

SMC machines 24 to 72 in. wide. Wetout by reverse wrapping over a series of drums with ribbed kneading rolls and hot-water recirculating system. Two,spindle windups and automatic resin feed to doctor knives are standard. Calender rolls are used for heavier materials. In-line resin mixers have two proportioning pumps and a rotary mixing head. Made for rapid disassembly and cleaning.

Corrugated-sheet equipment in custom sizes and capacities.

Filament winders in a range of lengths and diameters. Floor-mounted or overhead traverse rails. Simple chain-drive traverse recommended. Windings from circumferential to polar, with quick interchange from one to another.

Also pultrusion machines with electrical platens and caterpillar pulling.

CALIFORNIA GRAPHITE MACHINES

Unidirectional prepreg machines for aerospace composites in 12-, 24-, 48-, and 60-in. wide webs. One-meter wide models for sporting goods and other commercial uses. Resin filming machines of all sizes for precision film weights. Total prepreg plant equipment includes resin mixing vessels, data recorders, heating and chilling equipment, resin milling, impact mills, prepreg plant layout assistance, and field service.

CANNON USA INC.

Compotec SRIM turnkey system includes:

* High-production preformer capable of making parts from 40 x 32 in. to 112 x 80 in. Cycle times of 45-90 sec, including instantaneous mat transfer from heating to clamping station. Automated glass laydown and cutting are optional. Lower platen shuffle aids in preform removal. Preformer also applicable for RTM applications.

* High-speed clamp with optional shuffle bed can handle small or large molds. Single- or double-shuttle design can be incorporated to increase productivity and increase overall access to the lower platen, while 90 [degrees] booking of the upper platen enhances access to the top mold half. Clamp is capable of fast cycle times and large clamping forces with the option to vary tonnage and control platen position during the injection phase to maintain better control over internal pressures.

* Variable-output closed-loop metering unit rapidly fills the mold to permit fast cure times. Closed-loop control of variable outputs allows for rapid filling of parts while controlling injection pressures. Can inject simultaneously from one metering unit.

CENTURY DESIGN, INC.

Specializes in tape-wrapping equipment for making hollow tubular structures such as golf shafts, fishing rods, tennis racquets, steering-wheel columns, helicopter blades, and medical prostheses. Automated and computer-controlled systems for high-volume and precision parts. Complete turnkey systems and individual machines such as tape layers, tape wrappers, prepreg slitters, pattern cutters, frictionless tensioners for tape and filament, mandrel extractors and cleaners, centerless grinders and wet sanders.

CINCINNATI MILACRON COMPOSITES BUSINESS GROUP

Composite tape layers for thermosets and thermoplastics are automated systems for measuring, cutting, and laying down courses of prepreg tape on flat or contoured surfaces. Multi-axis tape laydown head mounted on a beam that travels on overhead rails. "Natural path" software allows off-line analysis of lay-up on a contoured surface.

Acramatic 975C control system offers 10 axes of coordinated control with individual acceleration and deceleration rate, and "Look Ahead" software to prevent laying down defective tape.

Viper Fiber Placement System (FPS), is a seven-axis machine that can place fiber tows along paths not achievable by manual lay-up or automated tape-laying systems. Fiber-placement head on a robotic arm applies some heat while compaction roller on a head allows work on concave surfaces with minimal secondary debulking. Lays up to 24 individual, 1/8-in.-wide tows, and can cut and restart tows individually. Can lay up contoured ply shapes, follow serpentine ply paths, construct tapered shapes, and create localized buildups if necessary.

Head of thermoplastic tape layer has three heating and two cooling compaction shoes. Heating shoes are cartridge-heated up to 1000 F. Capable of end cuts from +45 [degrees] to -45 [degrees]. Lays only fiat panels, which can then be formed. (See ad p. 53,)

COMPOSITE MACHINES CO., INC.

Machinery for filament winding, fiber placement, pultrusion, and RTM. Standard and custom modular winding and fiber-placement machines have four to six axes of control, brushless d-c servo motors on all axes, and CMC1 PC-based computer control as standard. New low-cost winders for pipe, ducts, and tanks have chain-driven carriages and d-c or servo-driven spindle. Two-axis winder for 10 golf shafts also available. Cadwind pattern-generation software for PCs calculates winding patterns for up to six axes. ET1 electronic fiber tensioner also offered.

Newest line pultrusion machines from low-cost basic models to sophisticated servo-driven machines with PC control. Pulling forces from 500 to 20,000 lb, speeds of 60-240 in./min, and work envelopes from 1 x 1 in. to 24 x 10 in. Pullers can be formed-wheel, caterpillar, or reciprocating-platen types.

Also offers pultrusion dies (including injection type), fiber creels, forming guides, resin baths, overwinding stations, mat slitters, flying cutoff saws, drill stations and notchers, roll-off tables, routers, trimmers, and other auxiliaries. New Polygran gelcoat spray system from Resipol in Italy makes granite-like effects in several colors.

Also gantry systems for fiber placement and tape laying, plus computer-controlled resin mixing, pumping, and weighing systems for RTM, filament winding, and pultrusion. Large-bed, low-pressure presses for RTM and prepregging have electric bail-screw drive and cart-mounted lower platens.

COMPOSITE PROCESS EQUIPMENT

Pultrusion machines and FRP panel production machines with pulling capacities from 4 to 50 tons. Hydraulic units are ruggedly built for low maintenance. Automatic flying cutoff saw and Computrac computer control with color CRT display. Records temperature, clamp pressure, pulling speed, run time, purge cycle, length of cut, length of pull, winding speed (optional), and resin formulas. Allen-Bradley control system regulates pulling speed to within 0.1 in./min and temperature to 0.1 [degrees] F.

THE CONAIR GROUP, INC.

Heavy-duty Cat-A-Puller takeoff, cutoff saw, and pneumatic dump table for pultrusion. Handles part envelope to 0.5-ft high x 1-ft wide. Continuous pulling forces up to 10,000 lb. Traveling saw with abrasive or diamond blade for wet or dry cutting. Controls include d-c drives with optional all-digital drive. Load-cell force gauge available to display pulling force.

CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY DIV. INVESTMENT HOLDINGS LTD.

Continuous casting/polymer concrete machines use special polymer formulations to form air-foamed spheres carrying required water for blending with Portland cement to produce ultra-lightweight cured Portland/concrete shapes.

CON-TEK MACHINE, INC.

Urethane fixturing equipment, specializing in RIM/RTM clamps. Clamps can be designed with manual or fully automatic electrical control systems, adjustable tilt capabilities, intrinsically safe components, and with or without mixhead handling systems. In addition to standalone booking clamps, a variety of styles are available including mold-shuttle clamps, rotary tables and post designs.

DESIGN EVOLUTION 4, INC.

Full turnkey RTM production systems. Specializes in design, development, prototyping, tooling and manufacturing of structural composite materials.

Designs and offers SMRIM-RTM (Sequential Multiport Resin Injection Manifold) system. Patent pending.

DIEFFENBACHER NORTH AMERICA INC.

Builds hydraulic high-speed presses and press-system auxiliaries. Presses from 300 to 5000 tons with bed sizes from 40 x 40 in. to 200 x 160 in. High-precision presses available with parallelism control.

Auxiliary components include automatic GMT conveyor ovens, CNC loaders for GMT or SMC charges (max. 6 axes), proprietary gripper technology (needle, suction or mechanical type) for GMT and SMC charge and parts handling, cooling stations for GMT and SMC parts, and quick-mold-change systems. Also cell controls with strategic emergency programs, master control systems interlinking several production cells via an intelligent network, product and process data-acquisition systems, and SPC and process data analysis.

DURA WOUND, INC.

Two-axis filament winding machines and related equipment available in four basic models with a choice of mechanical or digital position motion control.

Model PC-104 table-top winder uses position control technology to wind precision parts to 12-in. diam. and 4 ft long. Standalone or PC operation.

Cobra Model 11-A laboratory winder handles hoop and helical patterns to 36-in. diam. and 5 ft long.

Model 10-C pipe and duct winder designed so a single operator can wind mandrels 2- through 48-in. diam. to 20 ft long. Standard machine includes 20-strand E-Glass delivery system with creel rack.

Model 20 tank winder for hoop and helical patterns 2- to 288-in. diam. and 20 ft long. Standard machine includes 20-strand E-Glass delivery system with creel rack.

Longer length capacity, fiber tensioning devices and heated baths for carbon, E-Glass, and Kevlar available for all machines. Pipe mandrels 2-through 12-in. diam. to 42 ft long are centerless ground with a 0.003 in./ft taper. Collapsible tank mandrels 14- through 288-in. diam. are 22 ft long and use mechanical screw-jacks for opening and closing.

EDGAR INDUSTRIES

Directed-fiber preforming equipment in a wide range of sizes and production capabilities.

ELECTROSTATIC TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Equipment to make prepregs via dry-powder application. Product forms include fabrics and tow. Process also can be used to make tackified fabric and fibers for RTM processing. Resins include engineering thermoplastics such as PEEK, nylon, and PP as well as thermosets. Process is solvent-free because electrostatic charge is used to deposit powder. Also equipped to manufacture powder-based prepregs.

EM[C.sup.2] INC.

SMC impregnating machines, press loaders and unloaders, in-mold coating systems, and complete lines with cooling, automatic deflashing, drilling, milling and adhesive bonding. Also RTM metering equipment and complete automated turnkey systems. Trim presses up to 200 tons.

Complete line of meter/mix/dispense equipment for two-component adhesives.

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Filament winding equipment includes low-cost, two- or three-axis PW12 bench-top winder for research, education, and small-parts production. It winds parts from 0.5 in. to 12 in. diam. and up to 72 in. long. Unit available with a wet-winding or prepreg delivery system.

PW Series computer-controlled, multipurpose winders for high production have two to five axes of motion. Standard diameter capabilities include 12-, 18-, 34-, and 48-in. diam. with lengths to 30 ft.

PS production series, which includes all multiple spindle designs, offers up to four axes of motion and 2-20 spindles. Applications include sporting goods and pressure vessel markets.

For high-precision aerospace applications, 5K Series ranges in diameters from 48 to 144 in. Series offers standard computer control of up to six axes of motion and has been modified to control up to eleven axes. Common application is for motor cases.

For large diameter pipe and long tanks, 4K Series utilizes A-frame head-stock and tailstock designs with diameters to 24 ft and lengths to 60 ft.

Complete turnkey production lines as well as custom engineering. Line of accessories includes tensioners, resin baths, creels, prepreg delivery systems, ovens and extractors.

FINN AND FRAM, INC.

SMC machines feature wide cutters and dual-wire-mesh-belt wet-out system for high glass content or heavy sheet. Machine is modular with several possible configurations. Dual fixed-spindle winders, bulk packagers (festooners), and combination winder/packagers available in several sizes. Open and closed dynamic in-line mixers and doctor-blade supply system.

Glass-roving cutters, 4 in. long to extra-wide, cut lengths 1/16 in. and up. Expendable razor blades and replaceable cot sleeves. Options include laminating equipment for circuit-board manufacture, and SMC charge cutters (slitter/blankers) that slit, trim, and cut to length with programmable controls.

Computer-controlled, continuous FRP panel lines produce flat, corrugated, or embossed panels. Sand or pebble surface can be added.

Single-station, directed-fiber, and semi-automatic preform machines for applications such as RTM.

GLAS-CRAFT INC.

FRP spray-up equipment includes internal- and external-mix spray systems for gelcoat, spray-up and wet-out. Complete line of airless, air-atomized and air-assist/airless systems. LPA-II-AAC air-assist/airless spray gun with exclusive Air Assist Containment and SP-85 catalyst slave pump reportedly provides excellent transfer efficiency and extremely low emission levels.

Flow Coat and Flow Coat X is a "sprinkler-type" coarse dispense nozzle.

RTM dispensing equipment includes LPI (Low-Pressure Injection) system with 4:1 pump, standard slave-pump catalyst proportioner, and capacity of 2.5 gal/min. Gun has one-button on/off control, cleanout ports on both catalyst and resin sides, pump-stroke counter, and reset switch. Low-pressure recirculation of catalyst and resin keeps fillers in suspension. Solvent and air flushing.

New APD putty dispensing system for boat makers continuously catalyzes and mixes putties with viscosities above 1 million cp.

GRACO INC.

Plural-component equipment systems for metering, mixing, spraying or casting PUR, epoxy, polysulfide or filled polyester. Pumping units with mix ratios from 1:1 to 18:1 draw materials from catalyst and resin storage tanks, and deliver components to a static-mixing head where a transfer hose can be used to deliver mix to spray guns or dispensing valves.

GS MANUFACTURING CO.

Airless chopper, wet-out and gel-coat spray systems feature "no-flush" external mixing and are reported to offer simple operation, built-in safety factors, and fast, efficient production. Gun is lightweight (3 lb, 7 oz) with a single-finger, air-assist trigger control. Can be converted from chopper gun to gelcoater with removal of one bolt and change of tip. Chopper-gun mount has a swivel for instant alignment of glass and material spray pattern.

Does not need solvent flushing. Because of low pressures, gun can be operated within 6-8 in. of the mold and delivers 3 to 23 lb/min. Catalyst is safely used directly from shipping container, and is pumped through a reportedly easy-to-maintain pumping system. Systems can be stationary or portable.

'True" airless or airless/air-assist MEKP systems. Compact Little Willie gelcoat unit with lightweight gun mounts on 5-gal pail. RC42 Rascal chopper system features lightweight gun, high-speed/high-torque chopper motor, and spring boom that has 5-ft vertical movement with adjustable tension.

Also high-volume web-out systems, Multi Color Block for up to eight gelcoat colors, and Big Bertha high-volume chopper gun that can dispense up to 35 lb/min of laminate and handle six strands of glass.

Gemini variable-ratio urethane/polyester hybrid spray system features internal-mix Rascal hybrid spray gun with chopper, transfer pumps, variable-ratio proportioning system, in-line heaters, heated hoses, and portable cart with 12-ft boom.

RTM system is based on Little Willie gun with a static-mixing extension, 5:1 air-motor pump, and catalyst slave system. Mounts on 5-gal pail or wall; can be used with saturator or resin-roller attachments.

All polyester spray equipment available as internal or external spray.

Also high-volume Big Willie polyester putty dispensers, high-viscosity adhesive dispensing units and new electrostatic gelcoat unit for use with conductive tools. Air-driven alternator in the gun charges the droplets of gel-coat; the spray is attracted to the tool for efficient transfer.

GUSMER CORP.

Variable-ratio DeltaRim impingement-mixing RIM machinery for RTM and SRIM dispensing at 40 to 240 lb/min. Double-acting Continuous Delivery Cylinder (CDC) pump system provides uniform flow and unlimited shot sizes.

Series HPV cylinder dispensing systems with outputs from 0.8 to 26 lb/sec for RIM and RRIM materials. The machines are equipped with a mechanical feedback system that ensures accurate throughput and ratio control. Optional features include an automatic nucleation control.

HI-TECH ENGINEERING, INC.

High- and low-pressure RTM metering/mixing equipment and clamps, RIM and large LD-SRIM systems.

High-pressure RTM series has hydraulic cylinders with component metering capacities from 500 to 20,000 cc each, typically paired in a 4:1 or greater size ratio. Process controls for all machine functions, with optional full computer interface and SPC package. High-pressure impingement mixhead has external recirculation. Can be modified for high-temperature applications to 400 F.

Quantum Flow is an entry-level RIM machine with reportedly excellent metering capability, ratio control, and flexibility. Provides continuous material flow with accurate hydraulic metering at ratios from 100:1 to 1:1. Handles most fillers, including chopped fiberglass.

Dura Flow cylinder-type RTM machine processes polyesters, vinyl esters, epoxies, and urethanes. Large-volume resin cylinder is mechanically linked to low-volume catalyst cylinder. Quick-change linkage varies ratio in four discrete increments from 20:1 to 200:1. All-pneumatic operation, material recirculation, special cylinder design with equal flow in both directions, and large free-flow material path.

Tech Flow top-of-the-line RTM machine with PLC or computer controls and complete SPC capability features full closed-loop ratio and output control, temperature control system, injection by constant pressure or flow rate, and Windows-based interface. Customized to meet production or laboratory needs.

INGERSOLL MILLING MACHINE CO.

Special machinery for automated fabrication of composites include a full range of processes, from hand lay-up auxiliaries to custom-built pultrusion equipment, automatic tape layers, and advanced fiber-placement systems.

ITALIAN TRADE COMMISSION

Information on equipment for reinforced plastics spraying, spiral winding, pultrusion, and hand lay-up available from Italian companies.

JAECO-STEWART INC.

Plunger, diaphragm, and solenoid-type metering pumps for RTM or other systems. Variable speed motors and controllers.

LINCOLN INDUSTRIAL, A PENTAIR CO.

Air-operated pumps for transfer and spray-up of FRP fluid materials from 55-gal drums, 5-gal pails, or bulk tanks. Pumps operate inside or outside containers to move product to mixer or spray head. Pump accessories include primers, pressure primers, hose, control valves, measuring valves, mixing and metering equipment.

LINDEN INDUSTRIES, INC.

Plural-component metering/dispensing systems, mold-carriers, and clamps for SRIM, RRIM and RTM. (See Urethane Processing Systems.)

LIQUID CONTROL CORP.

Polyester resin/catalyst metering system for continuous or intermittent feed of catalyzed mix in RTM or filament winding. Variable-ratio control of 0.6 to 4%, outputs to 100 lb/min, filler loading to 70%, and use of most common catalysts. Multiflow series machines proportion, mix, and inject epoxy and PUR into closed molds. Can be used to meter, mix and dispense SMC paste.

Computer-controlled model with dual lance-piston cylinders driven by electric servo motors provides uniform, pulsation-free mold filling. Remote monitoring and quality documentation available.

LITTLEFORD DAY, INC.

SMC and BMC mixing components and complete compound production systems supplied through association with RP/C Corp.

C.A. LITZLER CO., INC.

Prepreg fabric saturation systems for fiberglass, graphite, and aramid include letoffs, splice presses, precision metering rolls, curing ovens, compaction rolls, and windups. Pollution-control incinerators and electronic drives and instrumentation included.

MAGNUM INDUSTRIES

Spray-up equipment includes an airless/air-assist chopper gun. Trigger reduces operator fatigue and eliminates lead/lag between catalyst and resin.

ATG-3500 gelcoat/wet-out gun also incorporates patented airless/air-assist technique and reportedly gives superior pattern control on gelcoat without tails. Air trigger allows feathering into tight recesses without flooding and eliminates possibility of spraying catalyst without gelcoat.

Putty dispensing machine handles any type of marine putty at viscosities to 3,000,000 cp. Slave arm meters catalyst in 0.1% increments. Putty and catalyst mixed and dispensed through a mixing block and chamber.

Serf-balancing, internal-mix chopper system automatically balances catalyst pressure when spray pressures or outputs are changed. Serf-balancing, internal-mix gelcoat system operates in much the same way as the chopper, resulting in reportedly superior mixing.

Three-component, internal-mix foaming polyester system meters both catalyst and blowing agent, which are mixed with resin at the gun.

Internal-mix resin-roller impregnator mixes resin and catalyst at the roller and introduces catalyzed resin inside the perforated roller, where it is evenly distributed.

MARTIN PULTRUSION GROUP

Durapul pultrusion machines have touchscreen PC controls, reciprocating-clamp pullers that get a 20-in.-long grip on the part, and down-acting clamps that do not display the part from the production plane so as to reduce warpage. Special die, alignment system allows tool to be raised, lowered, and pivoted in two dimensions to counteract any bowing tendency in complex profiles. Four standard models have pulling forces of 3-12 tons and product envelopes from 10 x 4 in. to 40 x 12 in.

Also Durafile pultrusion dies in standard or hardened steels; licensing for Pulrite process to make profiles with low-cost, lightweight cores; and Braid Insertion Device for producing hollow profiles from continuous tubular braid.

MASS MACHINERY, INC.

Used autoclaves for curing composites can be supplied with data loggers and instrumentation for manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic operation.

OEM INC.

Reciprocating head and cleated pullers for pultrusion, plus standard and wet saws.

PRECISION CRAFT CORP.

Equipment from Transtecnica of Brazil includes RTM systems with pump that mounts directly on the resin pail, slave-arm catalyst pump, and injection gun with static mixer.

Spray-up system for gelcoat and chop includes reciprocating pump and HVLP gun with airless/air-assist atomization and external mixing.

Wheeled vacuum-pump cart for vacuum bagging can draw vacuum from up to 10 inlets simultaneously. Vacuum to 28 in. (710 mm) Hg. Pump output of 4 to 50 cfm. Quick-release shutoff valves.

P.S.H. INDUSTRIES, INC.

R-2 spray gun for polyester and epoxy gelcoats and laminating resins is said to eliminate air bubbles and holes in mold making. Gun dispenses from paper or plastic cups.

PTI DIV., MMFG See Strongwell.

PULTREX LTD.

Pultrusion machines range from one-ton pulling load and 7 x 2 in. product envelope to 24-ton, 40 x 14 in. envelope. Machines feature electromechanical drives, up to three grippers per puller, swivel pendant control, digital controls, integral cutoff saws, ancillary equipment, and pultrusion tooling.

Pullwinding machines used in conjunction with a pultrusion machine place +/- continuous helical wraps into a pultruded profile construction. Standard features include single- (+winding) or twin-winding heads (+/-winding); independent, fully closed-loop control; online variable, pitch control; die and mandrel location for enhanced accuracy; impregnation system as standard; and fully guarded.

Filament winding machines for general and special purposes available with mechanical drive or up to six axes of CNC control. (Non-axis symmetrical program generation software available.) Machines are modularly designed in sizes to 14-ft diam. x 40 ft long. Tension and resin systems, and data logging and process monitoring available.

RADIO FREQUENCY CO. LAROSE RF SYSTEMS DIV.

RF preheaters and bonders for thermosets include model 671, which increases speeds on pultrusion lines; model L-200, which reduces press cycle times and improves surface characteristics in SMC molding (charges to 80 lb can be preheated in 45 sec.); model L-230 preform preheaters for phenolic and epoxy preforms in compression/transfer molding; and model 5100 thermoset bonders for SMC automotive body panels.

RP/C ALLIANCE CORP.

Full service sales and engineering company specializing in manufacturing systems for the composites industry. Components and suppliers include:

* Precision 3- and 5-axis CNC composite routers from Accu-Router.

* Thermoplastic pre-heating ovens from Blasdel.

* Precision tooling and assembly systems from D&F Corp.

* Press and fixture automation from ISI Automation.

* Meter/mix/dispense systems for structural adhesives, RTM and IMC from EM[C.sup.2]

* SMC and BMC mixers from Littleford Day.

* Adhesive curing systems, SMC and BMC pre-heaters from Nemeth Engineering.

* Noncontact precision inspection system from Perception.

* Nonsynchronous, accumulating material-handling systems from SI Handling Systems.

* Lift assist for large moldings from Zimmerman Handling Systems.

RTM SYSTEMS, INC.

RTM equipment includes low-pressure injection machinery for internal meter, mix (Spartan and LPI) and injection of polyester, vinyl ester, phenolic, epoxy, hybrid, etc. Newly introduced low-cost modular injection unit allows full automation.

Full line of mold building supplies and accessories: in-mold heater cloth and heater power packs, high-temperature core materials, vacuum generators, in-mold sensors, clamps, seals, sprues, and sprue plugs.

SANDVIK PROCESS SYSTEMS, INC.

Double-belt presses convey resins and reinforcements through a controlled time/temperature/pressure cycle to produce continuous sheet products (fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic and thermoset laminates, composites, and foams). Products can be up to 56 in. wide. Cure times to 10 min., cure temperatures to 500 F, and line speeds to 90 ft/min. Auxiliaries include loaders, cutting devices, take-up and let-off rolls.

SEALANT EQUIPMENT & ENGINEERING

Low- to high-pressure meter/mix/dispense equipment for epoxy, PUR, silicone, or polyester. From economical, air-powered bench-top unit to Program-a-Bead III units that interface with robots. RTM is a major application.

SIEMPELKAMP CORP.

Hydraulic presses (single- and multiple-opening) and complete plants (automatic layup, conveying, pressing, trimming, inspection and packaging lines) for high-pressure laminates (decorative, industrial-grade, and copper-clad laminates for printed circuits). Also hydraulic presses for molding of UHMW sheets, and continuous hot/cold presses for flat plastic composite materials.

STOUGHTON COMPOSITES, INC.

This pultrusion processor (a joint venture of Stoughton Trailers, Inc. and Alcoa) maintains small Pultrusion Machine Manufacturing Div., based on assets and technology derived from the former Goldsworthy Engineering company. Stoughton Composites builds pultrusion machines for its own use and sells them to others on a limited basis. As in late-model Goldsworthy machines, these systems have microprocessor control, closed-loop speed control, precision cutoff, and reciprocating puller/grippers in double, triple, or quadruple configurations. Type I machine has 8 x 24 in. envelope and 10,000-lb pulling force. Type II has 24 x 36 in. envelope and 40,000-lb pull force. Type III has 8 x 48 in. envelope and 20,000-lb pull force.

STRONGWELL

Pulstar automated, modular pultrusion systems with product envelopes from 8 x 6 in. to 40 x 16 in. available either with reciprocating pullers or caterpillar-type pullers. Machine management is provided by touchscreen control pendants and PLCs with custom software.

Die station options include either an open die bed or heated platen type to accommodate multistream production. Cut-off station offers automatic flying cutoff saw with limit switch, digital encoder wheel, or dead-stop provisions. Dual-cut saw station available.

Items for a turnkey system include creel and mat racks, and other materials-handling equipment. Tooling and in-feed systems can be designed and fabricated using both resin bath technology and resin injection technology. Gelstar thermal analyzer can monitor cure conditions on-line inside the die, or performing SPI gel and cure tests.

TENNEY ENVIRONMENTAL

Autoclaves from compact lab models to large production units with instrumentation to control temperature to 850 F, pressure to 800 psig, vacuum, etc. Hydraulically operated door with locking ring and remotely located instrument panel standard. Blower motor mounted in a water-cooled, encapsulated "bubble" enclosure on exterior wall eliminates need for shaft seals.

THERMAL EQUIPMENT CORP.

Turnkey autoclave systems monitor part vacuum throughout cure cycle. Computer control system has cycle editor with more than 24 controllable parameters, including part-heat rate, guaranteed soak, exotherm detection, pressure rate, vacuum levels. and alarms.

TRANSTECNICA See Precision Craft Corp.

UNITED MCGILL CORP.

Autoclave systems operate at up to 1200 F and 2000 psi with electric heaters and inert-gas pressurizing medium. Vessels can have patented door assemblies, hydraulically operated cylinders, fans, electric heaters, cooling-coil heat exchangers, and internal track. Other components include preassembled and piped vacuum supply platforms for quick field installation, control panels for temperature and pressure cure cycles, process-variable recorders with graphic display, and vacuum-monitoring and recording panels to ensure part quality.

Mini-Bonder is a lab-sized autoclave for R&D and limited production.

URETHANE SERVICE, INC.

Plural-component machines for pouring, casting, bead laying, frothing, potting, RIM and RTM. (See also Urethane Processing Systems.)

VEKTRONICS, INC.

Prepreg tape-laying equipment. Composite Processing Cell precuts prepreg tape for specific part geometries and stores it in a cartridge in an off-line tape processor. Cartridges supply an existing tape machine or company's low-profile, gantry-style tape layer or "split-axis" rotary table. Software package defines course geometry from part-definition input by operator or downloaded from a database. Ultrasonic bed cutter can be stand-alone or integrated with CPC-610 tape layer.

VENUS-GUSMER SUB. OF GUSMER MACHINERY GROUP

Systems for polyester and fiberglass open-mold and closed-mold processes from individual machines to complete turnkey plants. Patented H.I.S. (hydraulic injection system) uses internal, airless, low-pressure mixing and is incorporated into an extensive line of reinforced thermoset plastic systems that include:

* Hand-held spray-up units such as chopper guns, saturators and gelcoaters with accessories and support equipment. Pro Series Line includes the Pro Gun Chopper and Pro Series Gelcoater. Also flow coater for low styrene emissions. A special glass chopper is available.

* Resin injection and RTM units for low-pressure filling of closed molds include economical H.I.S.-based Hydrajectors, EPO1, EPO2 and EPO3 meter/mix series, and hydraulic-pump powered RAM for advanced composites. Pneumatic and hydraulic RTM presses available with shuttle action if required.

* Casting units for open molds or cavity filling.

* Automated reciprocators for high-volume production of FRP sheet products and contoured shapes.

* Impregnators for mechanized web out of woven roving and lay-up into large molds. Four-roll and seven-roll models in numerous configurations, including bridge crane and gantry configurations, as well as an 18-incher for lapping boat stringer and bulkheads.

* Filament winders for automated production of large-diam. tanks and pipe.

* Laminating rollers with "thin-fin" design for rolling out saturated woven roving.

* Cultured-marble machines include 12-, 30-, and 50-lb configurations for mechanized production of polyester marble matrix.

* Resin concrete machines for mixing coarse aggregate with polyester.

* Polyester foam units for low-fume spraying of polyester foam.

* Filled resin systems for mixing and dispensing with fillers.

* Composite specimen preparation system bridge saw for producing samples for numerous testing procedures.

VERMONT INSTRUMENT CO.

NOL ring winder has controllable overlap and speed. Fixtures for NOL ring testing.

Bench-type laboratory pultruders can make 1/8- to 1/4-in.-diam. rod. Torsion-test equipment to monitor quality of resin temperatures, and reinforcement surface treatment, speeds, etc.