A multi-disciplinary team led by Dr. John Russell, Mr. Richard Holzwarth, Dr. Frances Abrams, and Dr. Stephen Clay, demonstrated that large integrated and bonded composite structures can be applied for primary load bearing structures.
CAI hardware is now flying on the C-17 main landing gear doors, and CAI analysis tools are being used to size several commercial and military aircraft.
This year's E&I for Excellence in Environmental, Health and Safety Practices went to Alcan Baltek's Northvale, N.J. manufacturing team for their success at reducing workplace injuries and ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all stakeholders.
The Northvale location, acquired by Alcan Baltak in 2003, quickly met aggressive targets for reducing safety risks and incidents by establishing and implementing training programs, policies and workplace incentives.
The team coordinated periodic internal and external audits, defined and put in place personal protection equipment and training, and established safety committees.
At the time of its nomination for the award, the Northvale facility had already recorded 251 days with no lost time accidents, demonstrating its dedication and successful implementation of Alcan Baltak's EHS First program.
Gruber Systems Inc, Valencia, Calif, garnered the E&I for Community Stewardship for its civic pride and many years of dedicated service to Los Angeles County.
From its president and CEO and Chairman John Hoskinson, to its Gruber Go-Getters (as the employees like to refer to themselves), Gruber Systems continue to serve its community.
Its president has served on the board of local universities, community centers, and local hospitals, as well as spearheaded numerous local United Way campaigns.
Employees have whole heartedly participated in several annual activities, including Red Cross blood drives, fundraisers for the American Cancer Society, the Boys & Girls Club, and the local United Way campaign, for which they raise more than $50,000 each year matched by an additional corporate contribution.
For Innovation in Manufacturing Process, the E&I was awarded to LRM Industries, for its production of large, long-fiber-reinforced structural thermoplastic parts.
LRM developed an innovative manufacturing process known as TPF Thermoplastic Flowforming technology that can produce intricately detailed unitary parts with non-constant cross sections at scales up to 100 square feet and 200 pounds.
The technology already is being used in commercial and military applications, including prototype thermoplastic composite shelters for the U.S. Air Force.
The beam, one of the world's largest unitary thermoplastic composite parts, earned LRM the 2006 Building & Construction Award from the Alliance of Plastics Processors (APP) and the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI).
American Composites Manufacturers Association
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