Two Canadian composite firms join mold alliance

Two Canadian composites companies are part of the new Closed Mold Alliance, which will serve the industry by promoting and educating members on closed mold processes.

Clinton, Ont.-based RTM North Ltd., a light resin transfer molding (RTM) tooling expert, and Kelowna, B.C.’s FormaShape are two of the four companies in the alliance. The alliance also includes Composites One LLC of Arlington Heights, LLC, and Magnum Venus Plastech of Clearwater, Fla.

According to the alliance, the group will provide composite manufacturers a “complete closed mold solution,” including introduction and education, quality tooling, materials, equipment and implementation consultation and assistance.

“This achievement marks an unprecedented turning point within the industry and will impact the future development of closed mold applications as more and more companies make the decision to convert to this more economical and environmentally-friendly manufacturing process,” said the alliance.

A series of closed mold-related educational programs are being developed into Closed Mold University, which will provide practical, hands-on learning. Additionally, the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) is developing a Closed Mold Certification program.

“While closed mold processes have been available to manufacturers for many years, companies like Composites One, MVP and RTM North have helped build the reputations of these processes as ones that are both economical and more environmentally efficient than open molding,” said FormaShape president Peter Jeffrey. “This is why we converted to closed mold several years ago and have become the leading volume closed mold production company in North America with our own design, R&D and mold shop capabilities.”

“Now, as part of the Alliance, we will be able to offer other companies complete closed mold technology and support,” he continued.

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