CAMX 2016: Composites 101: Fibers and Resin

CAMX 2016 Composites 101 Fibers and ResinCompared to legacy materials like steel, aluminum, iron and titanium, composites are still coming of age, and only just now are being better understood by design and manufacturing engineers. However, composites’ physical properties — combined with unbeatable light weight — make them undeniably attractive. This month, CAMX Connection introduces to composites novices the fibers and resin systems commonly used in composites manufacturing. More.

CAMX 2016 – SEPT. 26-29 – Anaheim, CA

Mark your calendar and plan to attend the largest composites and advanced materials event in North America! In its third year, CAMX 2016 follows two straight years of growth. CAMX connects and advances all aspects of the composites and advanced materials communities, and is America’s go-to marketplace for products, solutions, networking and advanced industry thinking. CAMX is a global trade show and conference with over 50 different countries in attendance. Join the industry in Southern California this fall – you’ll find over 7500 attendees and 550 exhibitors from around the globe, and an unrivaled conference program with over 300 sessions.

Haven’t attended CAMX yet?
Check out the CAMX 2015 highlights to see what you missed. Ninety-eight percent of attendees recommend CAMX.

Composites Industry Continues M&A Activity

The last few years have provided the composites and advanced materials industry with a number of changes in company names and ownership.  These have taken place for varied reasons, but one trend is that U.S. companies are using mergers and acquisitions as a way to expand into international markets.  CAMX has also experienced an increased international presence from 2014 to 2015, confirming the importance of composites and advanced materials worldwide.  CAMX takes a look at this international M&A trend and the potential impact it could have on the industry.

The rise in overseas expansion is part of a larger global trend and comes with many benefits, including opportunities to penetrate new markets, increase sales or gain business with global OEMs. Companies also benefit by gaining a foreign perspective as they tread into unfamiliar markets.

One of the major mergers currently in the works, if completed, would create the largest wind turbine manufacturer in the world. The combination of Munich, Germany-based Siemens and Viscaya, Spain-based Gamesa Corporación Tecnológica could create a major disruption in the wind power industry – a growing global market for composites manufacturers. A major merger that has already happened, which has global implications, is Dow Chemical’s merger (and subsequent split into three companies) with DuPont, forming a chemical and agricultural powerhouse valued at $130 billion.

Although the acquisition side has not been nearly as flashy, for many businesses, that does not mean playing it safe. In February, Huber Engineered Materials announced its largest acquisition in more than a decade – acquiring Bergheim, Germany-based Martinswerk from Albermarle Corporation. Acquiring Martinswerk added to Huber’s substantial Fire Retardant Additives (FRA) portfolio and now allows Huber to offer global customers a wider range of products. Owens Corning also made waves when it acquired Ahlstrom, a fiber-based materials company based in Helsinki, Finland. That merger was made with the intent of expanding Owens Corning’s range of glass non-wovens and fabrics.

Another way businesses gain insights into international markets is by meeting leaders from all over the world at various international pavilions and booths at CAMX. At CAMX 2015, attendees had the opportunity to interact with composites industry leaders from 50 countries and every state in the United States.  CAMX looks forward to an even more robust international presence in Anaheim, CA this September, and will continue to host international pavilions on the exhibit hall floor and special activities for the international audience.

Why Anaheim For CAMX 2016?

Anaheim is located in Southern California, near Los Angeles. CAMX takes place at the Anaheim Convention Center, which is conveniently located near many restaurants and hotels. Visitors to Anaheim enjoy a warm climate and excellent dining, sports entertainment, close access to the Pacific Ocean, Disneyland, and much more. Southern California also serves as the headquarters location to a number of composites and advanced manufacturing companies and has many manufacturing facilities located nearby . . . all of which make this an ideal location for CAMX 2016. Find out more.

Call For Abstracts

Showcase your institution and research as part of the CAMX Conference Program – the most robust education opportunity for the industry. CAMX is still accepting abstract submissions for a few select categories.

Get the details and request an extension.

“What a great show and a great atmosphere. I can’t wait to come back in 12 months time to see what new applications have been developed.”

– Tecnon OrbiChem

CAMX Exhibit Hall Selling Fast

Exhibit space is still available at CAMX 2016, but companies are encouraged to reserve their space soon. Search more than 360 companies that have already committed to exhibiting at CAMX. View the Exhibitor Prospectus and reserve your space today.

Hotel and Housing Information – Make Reservations

CAMX has seven official hotels with rates ranging from $129 – $232 a night, and all are conveniently located within walking distance of the Anaheim Convention Center. All CAMX events will take place at the Convention Center or the Marriott Anaheim Hotel. To ensure the best service and rates, please make your reservations through the CAMX Housing Bureau, Conference Direct. Please be aware that Conference Direct is the ONLY CAMX housing provider and it is recommended that you only make reservations through the CAMX Conference Direct Housing Bureau. View hotels and make reservations now.