Dorset-based Norco Composites & GRP (
www.norco.co.uk) — a leading manufacturer of composite structures and glass reinforced plastic (GRP) mouldings — has invested in a large spray booth and a soon to be delivered cutting and kitting machine to increase its productivity and meet the growing demand from its customers.
At the start of 2017, the company began working with Princess Yachts on canopies for the latter’s V40 and V50 boats, and it introduced a seamless production process from lamination and finishing through to the paint shop.
This has put Norco in a position to deliver six canopies per month and given it the confidence to make the latest investments.
The company has already installed the new spray booth, measuring 10 ¥ 6m, which will allow it to process both larger and multiple structures.
Each structure will receive several layers of primer, paint and lacquer to ensure the high-quality finish demanded in the world of luxury yachts.
In addition to marine applications, the new spray booth will enable Norco to work on aerospace components, including flight simulator hoods.
Mark Northey, Norco’s managing director, said: “Adding this vital equipment will enable us to significantly increase our capability in two key areas of our process flow.
"We are seeing an increase in demand for painted components, and the new spray booth will allow us to manufacture components quicker.
"The new kitting machine will also improve our efficiency and allow us to produce kits to a tighter tolerance.”