Discussing Challenges and Opportunities for Composites in the EV Market
Nov 19, 2024
This week, returning guest Andrew Pokelwaldt joined me to discuss challenges and opportunities for composites in the EV Market.
As the US electric car market faces hurdles from shifting consumer demand and infrastructural challenges, the role of composites is increasingly critical. On this episode, we explore challenges such as charging infrastructure, cost, range anxiety, supply chain issues, and battery technology.
At the same time, we’ll discuss how composites are being used to help manufacturers meet stringent efficiency and sustainability standards while addressing specific pain points like weight reduction, thermal management, and cost control in battery technology and vehicle body design.
Extending the Lifetime of Composites with CompPair’s HealTech™ Technology – Interview with Amaël Cohades
Oct 29, 2024
On this episode, Amaël Cohades, CEO of CompPair joins me on the podcast to discuss their recent collaboration with Composite Recycling on a breakthrough composite part that is recycled, recyclable, and healable. This composite part is a dune buggy roof scoop, which channels airflow to the engine.
CompPair has over 10 years of research in advanced composites. This Swiss company was founded in 2020 and is based in Lausanne. They are committed to promoting circular economy practices through its innovative HealTech technology.
Changing the Future of the Railroad Industry with Composites – Interview with Tim Noonan of Evertrak
Oct 22, 2024
On this episode, Tim Noonan, founder and CEO of Evertrak joins me on the show. Their company is making some of the strongest, most innovative railroad ties in the US. Their ties are made with Glass Fiber fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) from recycled plastic.
The railroad industry has a problem that runs 140,000 miles long. 20 million wood ties are replaced each year because of bugs, moisture, and wear. This represents 6 million trees.
Evertrak 7000 ties are engineered to perform reliably in track for 50 years in high-rot regions, reducing replacement costs, deforestation, and the use of dangerous creosote.
She’s the chief science office at CorporateVisions where she helps the world’s most visible brands create memorable and actionable content using brain science.
Dr. Simon also teaches at Stanford University and speaks frequently to audiences about crafting communication that is not only memorable but also sparks action!
Her latest book dives into the science behind why we notice some things and ignore others. You can a copy at https://amzn.to/3Y74A2v. Carmen also has community on Locals for anyone wanting to create designs that impact your audience’s memory and decisions. You can join this group at https://memorable.locals.com.
Discussing the Future of Automation in Composites with Derek DeGeest
Oct 05, 2024
On this episode, Derek DeGeest joins me on the show to talk automation and advanced robotic technology in the composites industry.
Derek is the president at DeGeest Corporation, a leading resource for manufacturers looking for excellence in automation, and finishing. They’ve been helping manufacturers solve problems since 1976. You can learn more about their company at https://degeestcorp.com.
Discussing the Latest Updates on the Port Workers Strike with Dan Neumann of the ACMA
Oct 02, 2024
On this episode, Dan Neumann joins me to discuss the port strike called at East and Gulf Coast cargo facilities. Thousands of dockworkers from New England to Texas went on strike just after midnight on Tuesday.
We’ll be discussing what’s being done in Washington and how manufacturing companies in our industry should prepare. The ACMA will continue to track this issue and update members via their Insider newsletter. If you’re not an ACMA member, you can learn more at https://acmanet.org/membership/why-membership-matters.
Hurricane Helene
We’ll also be discussing developments related to Hurricane Helene along the east coast of the United States. Many member companies were significantly impacted by these storms. ACMA members that require assistance in outreach to federal assistance, including FEMA can use the FEMA website as a good starting point for both federal and state resources. The Helene specific website is: https://lnkd.in/ew2PXwfP
Discussing CAMX 2024 with Industry Leader and SAMPE Distinguished Service Award Recipient David Leach
Sep 26, 2024
On this episode, David Leach joins us again to share his thoughts on another successful CAMX show. David was awarded the SAMPE “Distinguished Service Award” this year – given to individuals who have significantly contributed to the betterment of society and have made a lasting impact on the organization’s mission.
David will share some highlights of this year’s event that stood out to him.
New Thermoplastic Composite Wins “Future of Lightweighting Award” – Interview with Chris Oberste of WEAV3D
Sep 05, 2024
On this episode, Chris Oberste, Ph.D. joins the podcast to discuss their work in winning the 2024 Altair Future of Lightweighting Award. This achievement was possible through their partnership with Braskem and Clemson Composites Center.
Their patented WEAV3D® process is based on a woven composite lattice reinforcement called Rebar For Plastics®. Their lattice-forming machines produce custom lattice structures from unidirectional, fiber-reinforced composite tapes.
You can learn more about their technology by visiting https://weav3d.com.
Discussing Dorfner’s Future Expansion with CEO Mirko Mondan
Sep 04, 2024
On this episode, Mirko Mondan, CEO of Dorfner joins the podcast to discuss some significant developments taking place within their company.
ACS International Products, a leading supplier of raw materials for the cast polymer, solid surface composites, epoxy flooring, and building materials industries, will officially transition to Dorfner USA by the end of this year. This transition marks an important milestone for the company, as Dorfner USA will further expand its’ operations across North America.
The rebranding will enhance the company’s visibility and streamline service offerings to better meet customer needs globally. Key initiatives accompanying this change include:
Significant Expansion of Business Activities
Investments for Optimized Supply Chain
Customer-centric approach and Enhanced Logistics
Expanded Service Activities with AI-Driven Product Development
We’ll be covering each of these with Mirko, and discussing in detail how AI is playing a huge part in product development and expansion.
Their system uses epoxy and polyurethane pastes and castings to create high-quality models and molds close to the final part’s shape. The technology has several benefits, including:
Minimal material usage
Minimal production waste
Fast milling
Seamless, fine surfaces
No bonding lines
Applications include design and styling models, molds, large-scale modeling, rotor blades, wind turbines, and boat models. You can learn more by visiting www.rampf-group.com.
Also, if you’re attending CAMX next week, you can find them at booth L31.
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