Devon-based Rockwood Composites (www.rockwoodcomposites.com) has increased its workforce by 50% in the past six months.

The company has also designed and built two new 100-tonne presses, which will go on stream this month.

They will be used to apply the heat and pressure needed to turn raw composites into components and structures for customers in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, defence, nuclear energy and medical technology.

In addition, the company has invested in a high-specification Hurco CNC machining centre to complement its increased laminating and pressing-moulding capacity.

CAD/CAM software is used to produce complex three-dimensional tooling — and for detail machining of the moulded parts.

Managing director Mark Crouchen said: “By increasing our workforce and our capacity, we can ensure a continuing supply of complex bespoke components to our customers and maintain the highest-possible level of customer service.

“The composites industry — particularly the aerospace sector — is experiencing rapid growth, and we are seeing more enquiries and more orders.”