The 2006 IBEX presents full-day immersion in special seminar topics that are in demand among boat building professionals. They run from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Of special note is Super Session 100 on Closed-Molding Basics given Wednesday, November 1, 2006 and utilizing our own NC-MARTEC director, David Flagler. According to David:
Our launch point for this full-day program will be the most basic process in closed molding: VIP, short for Vacuum Infusion Process. We'll walk you through everything you need to know about this simple disposable-bag procedure. At the same time, we'll discuss the challenges of closed molding, and we'll fill you in on what type of equipment you'll need to start working with VIP successfully in your own shop. We'll go well beyond techniques, to help you consider the many aspects of your program that may need to change, including suppliers, laminate schedules, in-house training programs, and your tooling shop. As you become more comfortable with the basics of closed molding, we'll add to your knowledge by introducing a series of technical drawings and photos showing more detail, and we'll give you the background information you need to maximize the benefit of watching the live demonstrations outside the convention center at IBEX. It's difficult to run both open- and closed-molding production in the same shop, so we'll help you decide between the two by providing you with some points of comparison in terms of vacuum layout, production flow, and materials storage and usage. As managers, you may be surprised by some of the information in our financial comparison of open- and closed-molding production costs, including a break-out of spendable and recoverable items. We want you to be assured that you will get the best use of the materials in your shop. Finally, we'll offer a rundown on the state of closed-molding techniques in our industry today, and we'll consider how we have all changed our perspective on infusion processing in a very short span of time.
Speakers:
Chris Duppenthaler and Vic Duppenthaler (Padden Creek Marine)
David Flagler (NC Marine Training and Education Center)
Mike Swietzer (Skagit Valley College)
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