Composite materials, formed by combining two or more distinct materials, are transforming the manufacturing landscape. These versatile materials boast a unique blend of properties that traditional materials often lack, making them a game-changer for industries like mining, water treatment, defence, and marine applications.
Strength and lightness
Composites are incredibly strong yet remarkably lightweight. This translates to not just economic benefits but also environmental ones. Novafast’s product line, including NovaFlo and NovaStand pipes (utilising FRP – Fiber Reinforced Plastic technology), are prime examples of this strength-to-weight advantage.
Durability
Unlike metals that rust or wood that rots, composites resist corrosion, weathering, and chemicals. This makes them ideal for harsh environments. They can withstand extreme temperatures and maintain their shape over time, reducing maintenance needs and extending product lifespan. Novafast’s NovaBore™ casings (more on this below) and NovaFlo piping systems, constructed with GRE (Glass-Reinforced Epoxy) or GRVE (Glass-Reinforced Vinyl Ester) composites, are perfect solutions for these demanding applications.
In other cases where durability is a must, NovaWrap is our multipurpose high-pressure composite repair system. In a recent project, NovaWrap was used to replace clamps to repair a split pipe. The application of NovaWrap was undertaken while the site was still active, meaning no downtime to the client.
Mining solutions are one of our specialtie,s and in harsh or remote environments, durability and reliability is key to keeping a project on track. NovaBore™ is one of the only materials in the market capable of meeting the stringent test and capability requirements to achieve a client’s specifications of pressure and depths. Novafast has also developed custom joint solutions to support required pressure applications.
Design flexibility
Unlike traditional materials with limited properties, composites can be moulded into complex shapes, defying conventional design constraints. This opens doors for engineers to create products with improved functionality and aesthetics. Novafast’s expertise in filament winding technology allows for this design flexibility across our product range.
Tailored performance
By varying fiber type, matrix material, and configuration, we can create composites with precisely the right properties for each application. Novafast offers various resins like Novafast 1000 Resin (ideal for GRE composites) and adhesives like NovaBond Adhesive to help achieve a level of customisation for optimal performance in the final product.
The future of manufacturing with Novafast
Composite materials offer a powerful combination of strength, lightness, durability, and design freedom. As manufacturing techniques advance, production costs become more manageable, and our understanding of these materials deepens, composites are poised to play an even greater role in shaping the future of countless industries. Novafast, at the forefront of composite technology, is well-positioned to deliver these advancements. Our potential to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enable groundbreaking designs makes us a true game-changer in the world of manufacturing.
