Composites in the News Last Week
Some U.S. operations took a hit this week. Construction parts manufacturer Martin Marietta Composites shut down its Sparta plant, eliminating 40 jobs. The company cited decreased product demand as a key factor in the decision. Meanwhile, truck parts maker Core Molding Technologies Inc. is moving 90 jobs from its headquarters in Columbus, Ohio to Mexico. Core Molding states the move accommodates a similar business strategy from its largest customer, Navistar Inc.
But, there were positive developments as well. Kentucky-based Blackhawk Composites, a start-up aerospace parts manufacturer, opened its doors. Executives at Composites Resources have been chosen as ambassadors for economic development in the state of South Carolina. Advanced Infrastructure Technologies, Inc. completed its Series A round of financing, which will accelerate the launch of its composite arch tube technology for bridge construction.
Other companies were exploring partnerships. TenCate will acquire UK armor company AML UK Ltd. This acquisition will provide the company with full access to the UK market for lightweight composite armor solutions. In the States, Axion International Holdings, Inc. will supply its thermoplastic material to Innovative Composites International and their strategic partner, Universal Storage Containers, LLC for elements in the construction of new composite containers. Meanwhile, Energetx Composites reached a licensing agreement with a top aeronautic design firm to produce a 145-foot turbine blade and Cytec Industries won contracts with Bombardier to supply composite structures for its new CSeries and Learjet 85.
In more air-related news, leading organizations were honored at the Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Aerospace & Defense Awards, held during Singapore Airshow 2010. The same event saw Commercial Aircraft Corp of China displaying a sneak peek at its new C919 aircraft. Also, Composites Atlantic is scheduled to receive $1.9 million to help cover industrial development of new advanced composite airline struts, and a new Russia-India fighter jet made a successful test flight.
On the research end, the University of British Columbia received $10.3 million in funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). One research area will look at utilizing lignin in carbon-fiber composites for strong and lightweight automobile parts. Also, NYU-Polytechnic Institute secured nearly $2 million for innovative research. The institute will use the funds to investigate and develop new composite materials for naval vessels. And SCIRO scientists reached a milestone in their efforts to artificially produce insect silk from bees, which they foresee using in advanced composites materials.
Finally, here’s some additional news of note from international waters. According to the Global Wind Energy Council, China installed more new wind turbines than either Europe or the U.S. last year. Also, the first race of the most litigious America’s Cup in its 159-year history is scheduled to take place Feb. 8 in Valencia, Spain, between defending Alinghi and the challenging U.S. team. However, many issues still remain unresolved and in the hands of the New York Supreme Court.
