Northamptonshire-based Express Composite Solutions (ECS) (
www.expresscompositesolutions.co.uk) was founded by David Damsell and Andy Collins, both of whom have a wealth of experience in pattern making, as well as mould and composites tooling (they are supported by lead design engineer Darren Cudd).
Since starting some three years ago, ECS has built a client list comprising largely F1 teams. Typical turn-round times from placing an order to delivery are of the order of two days, depending on the complexity of the part, and the business is now looking to enter other markets.
Mr Damsell and Mr Collins met at Red Bull F1; after working together for many years, they decided to start ECS to produce patterns, moulds and composite inserts for the F1 industry — and others.
Mr Damsell says: “As a relatively young company, we have attracted talented and experienced engineers with extensive knowledge of composites manufacture across a range of industry sectors. Currently specialising in F1 motor-sport, our skilled team is equally adept at providing swift, accurate solutions for any industry requiring high-quality composite tooling. The company has grown quickly and has invested heavily in new machinery.”
Mr Damsell has worked in a wide variety of precision engineering companies. He has also worked for several F1 teams, where his responsibilities ranged from machining patterns and completion of the end components to making models for wind-tunnel aerodynamic testing.
Mr Collins’ career has covered defence and satellite engineering, along with F1, where he worked for four different teams. He is an experienced CNC machinist and model maker, having set up and managed workshops with both three- and five-axis machines.
ECS has expanded its capabilities following the purchase of a Haas VF-2SSYT and a Haas VF4SS from Norwich-based Haas Automation Ltd (
www.haas.co.uk). Mr Collins says: “The new Haas machines for aluminium, titanium and composite manufacture are part of our planned growth strategy.
“Although we have a strong reputation in F1, clients from other industry sectors are now seeking out our expertise and services. The market is growing strongly, and we have been taking on more and more work. Thanks to our fast turn-round times and high quality, our clients keep coming back for more.”
Mr Damsell adds: “On-time delivery of top-quality components is of prime importance to us, as we are totally committed to customer satisfaction and long-term relationships. You won’t find harder critics when it comes to quality than in the F1 industry, and we’re compelled to meet the highest standards from when we receive an order until it’s dispatched.”