C-Tech goes Global with opening of new European manufacturing facility
by Anna Merchant 10 Oct 2023 16:21 PDT
11 October 2023
C-Tech staff at the new European build facility at Cabanes, Valencia © C-Tech
C-Tech, a distinguished New Zealand-based carbon fibre manufacturing company, has announced the opening of a new European manufacturing facility.
Situated in Cabanes, Valencia, it's strategically positioned to meet the growing demand for battens and carbon fibre tubes.
After more than a year of dedicated efforts behind the scenes, this milestone achievement has been reached. With the expansion C-Tech aims to overcome shipping and lead time challenges, ensuring quicker and more efficient services to its customers in the EU.
"At C-Tech we've always remained committed to pushing the boundaries of carbon composites. The opening of our new European factory marks another exciting step forward in our journey of innovation and quality," said Alex Vallings, Founder of C-Tech.
The new C-Tech Europe factory spans an impressive 2,200sqm and includes a 555sqm clean room, along with an additional 700sqm of yard space. The factory features a newly commissioned pressure and temperature controlled autoclave, capable of curing components up to 13 meters long and 1.5 meters in diameter in a single piece. It also houses a range of custom-built mandrels, roll-wrapping machines (NZ replicas) with enhanced laminate consolidation quality, and will be able to accommodate tubes up to 300mm in diameter and 13 meters in length. C-Tech Europe is also equipped with pre-preg cutting machines for precise preparation of materials for lamination, and a dedicated spray booth to ensure end-to-end solutions.
In the initial six-month period, C-Tech Europe will direct its attention towards the 37th Americas Cup, scheduled for Barcelona in 2024,and will continue its service to the superyacht industry and Grand Prix race teams. Positioned advantageously just north of Valencia, C-Tech Europe is ideally situated to cater to the demands of these teams, delivering advanced, tailor-made carbon fibre products that elevate performance while meeting pivotal deadlines. Meanwhile, C-Tech headquarters will continue manufacturing customised solutions to fulfill the needs of our diverse clientele across the world.
As operations at the European factory ramp up, C-Tech is enthusiastic about expanding its manufacturing capabilities further. With plans to introduce custom tube work in 2024 this forward-looking approach not only cements C-Tech's competitive position but also reinforces its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its valued customers.
Leading C-Tech's European factory is Alberto Soler, who grew up near the Spanish facility in Castellón. After studying engineering at Southampton University he has held engineering, technical, and management roles at Future Fibres, Persico Marine, Longitud Cero, 3D Tech, and the INEOS Britannia. Along with his composite experience, Alberto is a passionate sailor, having competed in national and European championships in various classes from Optimists to TP52s. Alberto's meticulous attention to detail, exceptional organisational skills, and commitment to high-quality standards make him an asset to C-Tech, poised to enhance their product offering in Europe.
"Opening our manufacturing facility in Spain is a significant milestone for C-Tech. This strategic expansion enables us to bring our carbon fibre solutions closer to our European clients. With advanced capabilities and a dedicated team, we're excited to contribute to the next chapter of innovation and excellence in the composites industry," said Alberto Soler, General Manager, C-Tech Europe.
C-Tech is a leading carbon fibre manufacturing company, headquartered in NZ, with a legacy of innovation and excellence spanning over 25 years. Known for its commitment to delivering top-quality products, C-Tech serves a diverse range of industries, including marine, automotive, aerospace, and sports. With the establishment of its new European manufacturing facility in Spain, the company is poised to strengthen its global presence and efficiently cater to its European market.
For enquiries, collaboration opportunities, or to join our team, reach out to us and become a part of our innovative carbon solutions at C-Tech.
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