The NCC industrial membership has gained a new member in the carbon textile solutions company, Sigmatex. The global firm develops and manufactures carbon fibre textiles for composite material applications. They join the National Composites Centre as a Tier 2 Member.

Based in Bristol, the National Composites Centre (NCC) brings together dynamic companies and enterprising academics to develop new technologies for the design and manufacture of high-end composite products. A cornerstone of the UK Composites Strategy, aimed at raising the UK’s industrial competitiveness in the field of composites manufacturing, it is also an important strategic partner for Sigmatex and they join 30 major industrial players in the composites sector who form the rapidly expanding membership of the NCC.

Chris McHugh, Sigmatex Technical Manager comments “Sigmatex fabrics are available in a range of formats including 3D woven, Multiaxial fabrics, woven, UD and Tape fabrics for many high performance composite applications. The materials can be tailored to suit differences in fibre orientation, crimp, drapeability, thickness and resin permeability.

“These textile solutions often require an innovative approach to textile design and process which is the core strength of Sigmatex. In joining with the NCC we expect that we can continue and enhance that innovation and accelerate product development and acceptance with our current and future customers”.

Scott Tolson, CEO of Sigmatex adds: “As a recognised global leader in providing carbon textile solutions we are delighted to be joining the NCC and working together with the existing members. Combining the significant recent investments in our new state of the art production process based in Sigmatex own premises and the development opportunities of the impressive facilities at the NCC will enable us to accelerate the use of composite materials in both existing and exciting new applications".

Peter Chivers, Chief Executive of National Composites Centre, adds: “We are delighted to welcome Sigmatex as a member of the NCC. Their expertise will bring considerable key enabling research activity in 3D fibre architecture to the NCC. It will offer our industrial membership access to the proven benefits of ultra light weight composite materials. The widening NCC membership enhances the breadth and depth of NCC’s capability and technology offering to our members. Overall this can only improve the competitiveness of the composites manufacturing industry in the UK”.