The organizers of Composites Innovation 2016, which focused on the latest advances in automation, said that the event was a success, attracting people from across the globe.

The conference focused on the latest developments in composite automation and advanced manufacturing, and featured speakers from across the supply chain. Emerging technologies and new innovations in the expansion of composites manufacturing were discussed, highlighting more efficient processes and automation solutions whilst exploring the challenges faced.

An audience of end users, OEMs and individuals learnt about solutions for composite materials production with a programme which included engineering disciplines from manufacturing, design, industrial, tooling, quality, and mechanical.

Attendees heard from speakers including Andrew Mafeld, Connectra Global, who gave an overview of recent glass, carbon and natural fiber composite developments in the global automotive market, and John Darlington, Ten Cate Advanced Materials, who spoke about composite technology for high volume manufacture, as well as many more.

High technology

‘The conference highlighted the increasingly important role of automation across the composites sector, not only in high technology production methods such as automated fiber placement, but also in more routine applications such as resin mixing, material handling and cutting,’ said Sue Keighley, events and communications specialist at NetComposites.

The conference also featured a tour of the Composites Centre at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

The next Composites Innovation Conference will be held on 20–21 June 2018, in Sheffield, UK.