In this issue:

Phone a friend

If you have a question related to any aspect of composite materials don't hesitate in calling the NCN Helpdesk on 01223 894 662. Alternatively, you can email your query to info@ncn-uk.co.uk

Here are some recent examples of questions handled by the Helpdesk:

Q. We use a hand lay-up process and are concerned about possible tightening of legislation regulating emissions. Can you tell us if we need to change our production process and, if so, how it should be changed?

Q. I need to improve QA in our production process and want advice on a suitable NDT method; can the NCN help?

Q. My company has a short-term contract that requires use of an autoclave. Do you have information on who hires out facilities?

Q. A composite component has failed in service. Who can give us an independent analysis on why it failed?

Questions are never too trivial or too complex; and you can use the Helpdesk as often as you need. NCN has the know-how and resources and will always do all it can to help you.

As well as providing information, the Helpdesk can set up one-to-one consultations with experts and organise direct practical assistance through NCN's Information, Diagnostics and Solutions range of in-depth tech support services (summarised in a printable leaflet on the NCN website). All this is provided free of charge!

NCN tech support covers polymer, ceramic and metal matrix composites plus all related topics and technologies, including:

• applications; design; materials development and selection
• manufacturing; assembly; joining; disassembly/recycling
• process modelling and economics; supply-chain issues
• testing and analysis of materials and products; non-destructive examination; repair
• standards; training; quality assurance; safety; and environmental issues

NCN Chairman

Who is Ken Wappat?

Ken was appointed Chairman of the NCN back in November 2004 and at this time was relatively unknown outside the marine sector. During the past 6 months he has been working closely with the NCN Board and team but is now also engaging with key players across all sectors where composites are making their mark.

Over the forthcoming years he will endeavour to be out and about as an ambassador for the NCN and gaining further insight into how it can offer increasing service to the industry. You can view a pen-portrait of Ken on the NCN website. If you would like to contact him you can do so by e-mailing the NCN Helpdesk - please put 'For the attention of Ken Wappat' in the Subject line.

Formal links with SIMoNET - the Structural Integrity Network

NCN has made a formal link with SIMoNET, a thematic network focused on structural integrity, managed by University College London. The network has a large number of existing members, predominantly from the oil & gas and construction sectors but with growing relevance to others.

In previous years, SIMoNET has hosted several workshops where structural monitoring and inspection of composites have featured. It is now planned to hold a number of composites-focused events over the next few years to review and discuss specific issues and share best practice. The first of these is planned for November 2005, and further information about this will be publicised via NCN and SIMoNET in due course. For more information on SIMoNET's activities see www.simonet.org

New directory of UK composites expertise

The NCN has recently published a directory of UK composites expertise on its website. To access the directory you must be a registered user of the website: this is easily done via the homepage.

The directory (please register if you haven't already done so) helps you quickly locate companies which can assist in developing your composites business. It's arranged by industry sector and technology area, with the aerospace sector the first to be populated. Listings for further industry sectors will follow soon.

Many of the organisations listed in the directory are partners within the NCN, delivering its Information, Diagnostics and Solutions range of in-depth tech support services (summarised in a printable leaflet on the NCN website).

University research centres

One of the aims of the NCN is to map the UK's composites research capability. A questionnaire has been circulated to UK universities asking a variety of questions, one of which was to define their main technology thrusts. Here are the results so far:

Mapping composites research capability is an ongoing process, with continuous updating of data as more universities participate. If your university is not in this table it should fill in the questionnaire on the NCN website without delay!

Please help us to make this the most accurate, up-to-date survey of UK academic capabilities. The complete results will ultimately be on the NCN website as a searchable database for the entire composites industry to access.

News of upcoming events

Renewable energy regional innovation workshop:
24 May 2005; Rockingham Raceway, Northampton

The March issue of NCN E-news carried brief details of a forthcoming regional workshop on composites opportunities for the renewable energy market. There are still a few places available at this free event.

Further information on the workshop, aimed mainly at companies in the Northamptonshire region, can be obtained by e-mailing windsupply@ebc-info.co.uk
If you are unable to attend but would like further information on the activities of Windsupply also e-mail them with details of your interests.

Black Metal or Black Art? The 2005 Review
9 June 2005; National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham

Organised by MSC Software, this free technology seminar spotlights recent advances in the engineering simulation of composite materials. For further information and registration details please see event leaflet on the NCN website.