polar-tech-group---lentus

Lentus developing composite retention sleeves to support the electrification of the transport sector

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 08:43:17 GMT

We have developed high-speed optimised Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sleeves for use in electric rotor applications

Electric rotors have become a crucial component in the move to electrification within the transport sector, intensified by fast-approaching Net Zero deadlines. The challenges faced in the application of the rotors include the amount of centrifugal force generated at such high speeds, which makes it difficult to keep the magnets in place, and the subsequent current losses, which reduce the overall efficiency of the machine.

Polar Technology Management Group, an engineering and manufacturing business based in Oxfordshire, utilised their significant expertise in composite technology to develop high-speed optimised Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sleeves for use in electric rotor applications. They have been chosen as the supplier for a number of different high-performance vehicle Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) and are currently producing thousands of sleeves for respective contracts.

The benefits of using CFRP as the sleeve material are its superior strength and tensile properties, allowing for a lightweight solution that still ensures retention of the magnets and that resists the centrifugal forces in high-speed applications. Specifically, the sleeves enable rotors to operate at speeds upwards of 30,000 RPM, whilst minimising current eddy losses and system air gaps.

Polar Technology assumes the design authority for the CFRP sleeve, taking the customer rotor specification, selecting materials, and then developing a design which meets the criteria and is proven through analysis and testing.

For the manufacturing process, Polar Technology employs its market-leading filament winding facilities to create the sleeves and worked with their customers to test and perfect a press-fitting technique to fit the sleeves to the rotors. The benefit of this process is a higher retention pressure compared to sleeves that are wound directly onto the rotor, which generates a higher power output for the final product.

Daniel Chilcott, Business Development Director at Polar Technology, said: “Continued increased performance and efficiency in electrical machines is an emerging trend and something our composite sleeve technology is directly supporting. We are delighted to see our customers scale and continue to push the envelope”

Polar Technology will be showcasing its innovative rotor sleeves during Advanced Engineering, taking place at the NEC, Birmingham on the 30th and 31st October 2024.

For more information on our composite retention sleeves, please click here: Composite Retention Sleeves (lentuscomposites.co.uk)

Or to speak to our commercial team about a potential enquiry, click here: Contact Us (polartechnology.co.uk)

Health and Safety Committee Relaunched

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 12:45:00 GMT

Polar Technology have recently relaunched their Health and Safety Committee.

The committee is made up of representatives from across the company and will meet once a month to discuss all health and safety matters.
The purpose of the monthly meetings is to provide a forum for feedback and open discussion, to represent all employees by having a representative from each area of the business and to share progress on actions and improvement projects.
The inaugural meeting took place in July, and covered topics including dust extraction, noise improvements and new information signs for all doors. The committee are also assisting the QESH (Quality, Environment, Safety and Health) Team with a revised Health and Safety policy.

This relaunch is a further example of our continued commitment to providing the safest and most efficient workplace that we can for all our employees and ensuring the highest operating standards for our customers.

Polar Technology celebrate Cycle to Work Day

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:15:00 GMT

To mark the occasion, we were offering an incentive for the person who cycled the furthest distance, and a bacon sandwich and hot drink for everyone who had a go!

Last week, Polar Technology celebrated Cycle to Work Day. The point of the day is to encourage anyone to get in the saddle and experience the brilliant mental and physical benefits that everyday cycling offers.

Our participants all provided the details of their journey, as well as their cycling experience:
Scott Roberts, Co-Founder, said: “I cycled in from Denchworth, which is near Wantage, and back. I picked up Jake at Southmoor on the way in, which made it a 33 mile round trip. I normally cycle in two days a week, up the Ridgeway, on my Specialised Stump Jumper mountain-bike.”
Michelle Lewis, QESH Manager, said: “I cycled 35 miles in total, going a slightly different route home to avoid a busy stretch of road. I have a Trek Emonda ALR 4 Disc road bike in red and orange, which I love! I am a bit of a fair weather cyclist in general, though earlier this year I completed the Ride London-Essex 100.”
Lochlan Gunn, Manufacturing Development Engineer, said: “I completed my normal commute of around 12km from my home in Oxford and back, on my Colnago Titanio CT1 road bike, though unfortunately I got a puncture around the 8km mark on the day!”
Jake Longman, Paint Shop Manager, said: “As Scott said, he met me by my home in Southmoor, near Abingdon and then we completed the rest of the journey together, which is about 12 miles, and then the same on the return leg.”
The winner of the competition was our Laser Technician, Jay Hewlett , who clocked up an impressive 51 miles on the day, starting in Cowley in Oxford but taking a much longer scenic route on the way home to secure victory!
Jay explained: “I did extra on the way home as it was such a nice evening, which was another 40 miles; I must admit I did get a bit lost! The reason I pushed for that is I wanted to hit my first 50 miles in a day.” “I rode my new electric bike which is pedal assist only, so you can’t just cruise along, you still have to put the work in! I also called electric bikes cheating until I got one; it only has a 25-mile range at the most, so you can’t just ride with the power on all the time, you have to pick your moments.”

To further encourage cycling on a day-to-day basis, Polar Technology offer a Cycle to Work Scheme, to help colleagues spread the cost and save money on bike and safety equipment through salary sacrifice. More information can be found on our People page: People (polartechnology.co.uk)

How we build transmission shafts

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:25:00 GMT

A guide to producing lightweight, energy-efficient transmission components

The use of composite transmission shafts is increasing rapidly in the aerospace industry, as more and more businesses are attracted to the high durability and long fatigue life that they offer whilst remaining a lightweight solution.
Polar Technology are established leaders in the development of lightweight, energy-efficient transmission components, having supplied a variety of shaft assemblies to industries ranging from automotive and motorsport to rail and aerospace.
Our patented composite to metallic mechanical interface removes reliance on adhesives and enables a more durable shaft, capable of delivering the highest speeds and torques.
Our in-house processes are flexible, depending on the specifications of the product required, but all follow a similar, scalable method that ensures a high-performance solution every time:
Step 1- Winding Filament winding is a specialist technique, which involves wrapping continuous fibres around a rotating mandrel.
Firstly, the fibres are unwound from spools and run through a series of rollers. They then pass through a resin bath that impregnates the material with an epoxy resin, before being wound onto the mandrel. Alternatively, components can also be wound with pre-impregnated material, which skips the resin bath stage.
The angle at which the fibres are wound onto the mandrel dictates the properties of the final product and defines the strength, stiffness and torsional resistance of the shaft.
Step 2- Curing After the winding process, the composite material is placed in one of our ovens, where they are cured at specific temperatures and conditions. This process is what binds the composite elements to allow the transfer of loads through the fibres. For the pre-impregnated components, they are cured in one of our autoclaves, which applies up to 150 psi of pressure, to compress and consolidate the composite material.
Step 3- Mandrel Removal and Slitting For hollow tube structures, the mandrel is extracted from the composite tube and transferred to our machining department for slitting, where our operators will cut the tube to the specified length.
Step 4- Measuring Our composite wound shafts are carefully inspected to ensure the length, outer and inner diameters meet the required specifications. At this point, the composite shafts will also undergo visual inspection and NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) to ensure that there are no defects which could compromise the structural integrity of the part.
Parts are also measured throughout the build cycle to ensure accuracy is maintained and inspection data is logged on our data capturing system.
Step 5- Pressing Now the composite structure is ready to have the machined end fittings pressed onto it. Our machine is compatible with a wide variety of tooling to enable different fittings to be applied to the composite shaft.
This is where our patented mechanical interface is utilised, as the composite structure and metallic end fittings are combined solely by applying pressure at either end.
Once the fittings are attached, bearings can also be added for extra support, if the shaft requires it.
Step 6- Balancing Shafts will then be taken to our balance machine, which is used to rotate the shafts at a given RPM to analyse any imbalance that may be present.
Any imbalance is then corrected by addition of material through spot welding, and this ensures that the weight distribution along the shaft is neutral and the rotating masses at either end are evenly distributed, thus minimising noise and vibration issues.
Step 7- Testing The final stage is moving the shaft to our designated quality control area. Using our metrology and inspection facilities, which include CMM machines and portable CMM with laser scanning capabilities, we can check to ensure parts are conforming to the required specification.
Once all tests and inspection criteria for the assembly have passed, we carefully package and send the completed assembly to the customer, ready for integration within their own technologies.
And that is how we produce transmission shafts for a variety of high-performance applications. However, the experience we have in the process of creating wound composite structures is transferrable to all kinds of products for a wide range of industries.
We also use this method, or adaptations of it, to develop pressure vessels, hydraulic accumulators, composite rotors and more. If you want to find out more about our wound capabilities, click here: https://www.lentuscomposites.co.uk/capabilities
Or if you want to speak to our engineering team to better understand how we can assist your product development, then click here: Contact (polartechnology.co.uk)

How moulded composite products are made

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 13:27:00 GMT

A comprehensive guide to developing high-performance composite products.

One of the key areas of expertise we have here at Polar Technology is in the development of moulded composite products. We have utilised this method to create a wide spectrum of composite structures and components, including class-A surface components for hyper cars, the bike frames for Team GB at the 2016 Rio Olympics and bladed fans for aerospace propellers.
So, how does the process of creating moulded products work? We’ve leaned on the experience of our specialist team to create a comprehensive guide, taking you through each stage, to understand how we develop high-performance products from raw composite materials. What materials do we use?
Going right back to the start means looking at the composite material itself, and the most common material we use is carbon fibre. To create carbon fibre, strands of material are heated to high temperatures and exposed to various chemicals. Next, they are woven into normal fabric, just like in the textile industry.
After it’s been woven, it goes through an impregnation process where a special kind of resin is added, which gives the carbon fibre a particular weight, this resin can be partially cured or “B-staged” to form the resin impregnated material commonly known as pre-preg. These rolls of material are then stored in freezers, ready to be defrosted whenever we need them.
Step 1- Cutting
As required, the rolls of carbon fibre pre-preg will be defrosted overnight and then the next day, they will be cut into kit form. Using our CNC machining centres, we can create clean and precise patterns without any damage or distortion to the material. Once cut, they will be given to one of our skilled laminators.
Step 2- Laminating
Each of our laminators will follow an exact drawing or lay-up manual when producing a component. Using specialist hand tools, they will place the pre-cut forms or cut the material to match the specifications and then arrange it within a designated mould. The component is made up of lots of different layers of the carbon fibre pre-preg, for maximum structural integrity.
Step 3- Vacuum Bags
Once the laminating is finished, the component will be covered in a release film and then a breather cloth before being placed inside a vacuum bag. The release film ensures the carbon fibre doesn’t stick to the breather cloth, whilst the breather allows the air to be extracted from the laminate and the vacuum bag.
Step 4- Curing
Once the component has been in the vacuum bag, it is ready to be cured in one of our autoclaves. Our autoclaves have a maximum pressure of 150 PS and a maximum temperature of 200 degrees Celsius.
Over a period of time, the pressure of the autoclave will compress the component (which is still inside the vacuum bag) and that consolidates the multiple layers of carbon fibre.
Step 5- Demoulding and Quality Control
From the autoclaves, the component will be returned to the laminator to be removed from its mould. Our quality inspector will then check the component against the required dimensions, to ensure it is compliant, before it goes through any finishing processes.
Step 6- Trimming
Next, the component will be finely trimmed, which means that any excess material will be removed, and its surfaces will be smoothed.
At this point in the process, there are two options available: the component will either be trimmed by hand in our trim shop or will go to one of our machining centres for a more precise finish.
Step 7- Machining
The reasons we utilise machining is because some parts require greater precision, which only our CNC machines can deliver. We use vacuum fixtures, which holds the component in a free-form position, and then we machine any holes, shapes or patterns that the design requires.
Step 8- Assembly
The component is then ready to go to assembly. We offer our customers mechanical and electrical assembly, as well as full supply chain management and lineside and kanban delivery.
That means that it leaves our site as an entirely finished product and goes straight to our customers, ready for immediate integration into their own technologies.
Step 9- Paint Shop
Some of our customers prefer a high-spec finish to their components, which is where our specialist, in-house paint shop comes in. We can apply lots of different kind of finishes, including coloured, clear coat and satin. This enhances the aesthetics of the component and ensures it comes out looking as impressive as possible!

And there you have it, an overview of how we produce composite products, using autoclave cure, pre-preg moulding techniques. If you want to find out more about our composite capabilities, click here: Capabilities (lentuscomposites.co.uk)

Or, if you want some advice or support on your moulded composite requirements, click here to speak to a member of our team: Contact (polartechnology.co.uk)

International Women in Engineering Day

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 13:57:00 GMT

Hear from our female colleagues on their experiences

Despite the significant process made in the previous few years, it is estimated that only 16.5% of engineers in the UK are female, with a similarly low percentage for other roles within the wider engineering and manufacturing industries.
International Women in Engineering Day, which takes place on the 23 ^rd June this year, has become a platform to shine a spotlight on the women who are acting as trailblazers within the industry and inspiring future generations.
At Polar Technology, we recognise the issues of representation within the industries we operate in, and we have made significant progress in increasing our percentage of female employees, but we know there is still more we can do. To find out more about the experience of women within our workplace, we spoke with a number of our female colleagues to hear what they had to say:
Kay Bicker, Composite Technician “I’ve been at Polar Technology for six years, and I’ve seen a big increase in the number of women working here over that period. That has definitely changed the dynamic slightly within the moulded composite department, as we’ve moved away from an almost completely male environment.”
“My favourite part of my job is being able to take a product right the way through a process, from start to finish. That means that if I see a car at a show, I can have the satisfaction of knowing that I built a part of that.”
“I think the problem [of representation] is that industries like engineering and manufacturing are still gendered somewhat, and that starts at school. However, I think the increase in different kinds of opportunities, like apprenticeships for example, have given young girls another route in.”
Rosie Wilson, Trainee Quality Engineer “In my previous role, I worked in a manufacturing company in Swindon, where I was one of only two women on the entire factory floor. That can be quite daunting and sometimes your abilities and understanding are questioned, so there was definitely a sense of having to prove yourself.”
“I’m pleased to say that’s not been the case at Polar Technology, where instead it feels as if everyone is expected to arrive at the same level, regardless of whether you’re a man or a woman.”
“I think the issue is the lack of representation. Engineering was not an option that was advertised to me. However, the more women that get into the industry, the more it will be seen as an option for everyone. So, if you can’t see another woman doing the job you want, be the first to do it!”
Melody Leung, Quality Engineer “I think the first thing to say is that this is not just a UK issue, it’s a global problem. I’m from Hong Kong and there were the same prejudices there. Whilst things are definitely improving and ultimately, we are being treated the same as the men, I think it takes more dedication for a woman to get to that point.”
“So, whilst it’s good that we are getting the same opportunities now, a woman might have to do a bit more than a male counterpart in order to prove her worth.”
Iwona Opalczewska, Health and Safety Administrator “Before my role at Polar Technology, I worked in the construction industry for twelve years and I was the only woman. It was fine when I worked for my husband’s company, but then when I changed jobs, it became a massive challenge. Sometimes it felt that my male colleagues didn’t listen to me or respect my opinion.”
“That’s not been the case at Polar Technology thankfully and in our office in particular, there’s much more of an even split between men and women. I think what helps is that I’m not very ‘girly’, so it doesn’t really bother me being in a typically male-dominated environment. You get used to it over time!”
“The best part of my job is seeing the benefits of the changes you implement. People come and see me and tell me that a new policy is working or that their concerns are now being heard and acted on, and that’s very rewarding.”
“My advice to young women who might be considering a career in this industry is: Just go and do it. If you enjoy what you are doing, then there is nothing that should stop you.”

Sharon Barrett, HR Director at Polar Technology, added: “Having a more diverse workforce provides us with a greater range of talent, offering different ways of thinking, better problem solving and more creativity. Whilst diversity is not simply about gender, we did feel this was a real gap for us because the reality is we work in a sector where there is a clear gender imbalance. It has been important for us to develop an offering that is attractive to women and girls and dispel the outdated image that engineering is dull and boring.” This has led to a big focus on diversifying our workforce over the last seven years and we are starting to see the impact of that, with 40% of our trainee roles now filled by females. We also have some great role models here that new women coming into the industry can really look up to, and that’s why we know there is even more we can do.”
For more information about International Women in Engineering Day and the reasons to celebrate it, click here: https://www.inwed.org.uk/

Or if you are a woman looking for a role in the engineering or manufacturing industries, click here for our careers pages: People (polartechnology.co.uk)

It's Men's Health Week

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 07:32:00 GMT

Hear from our colleagues on how they've utilised the support services that are available.

This week is Men’s Health Week, and we are celebrating it by highlighting all the support we have available for our employees, as well as bringing in external experts to further champion everything to do with men’s health and wellbeing.
The purpose of Men’s Health Week is to act as a reminder of the importance of proactively addressing and managing health issues and to encourage men to take charge of their own wellbeing.
This links perfectly with our own internal policies, which centre around the “Five Ways” approach. This suggests that building the following five actions into our day-to-day lives can make a big, positive difference:

1. Connect- Make and sustain connections with the people around you, including family, friends and colleagues.

2. Be active- Discover a physical activity that you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness.

3. Take notice- Be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling and savour the moment as much as you can.

4. Keep learning- Trying something new or taking on new responsibilities can make you feel more confident, as well as being fun.

5. Give- Relating yourself, and your happiness, to that of the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and helps to create further connections.

However, sometimes these simple fixes aren’t enough to cope with the pressures on our mind and body, and that’s where our internal support systems and range of benefits are so important. We spoke to our colleagues about how they’ve used the different types of support available to build healthier and happier lives:

Health Cash Plan:
The Health Cash Plan, provided in partnership with BHSF, allows Polar Technology employees to claim cash reimbursements for routine and emergency healthcare. It is available through a number of different packages, for both individuals and families, at different price brackets. The types of healthcare eligible for the reimbursements include dental costs, optical costs, therapy treatments, maternity/paternity and hospital inpatient costs.

Our Production Manager for Moulded Composites, has taken out a ‘Gold Family Package’, meaning his wife and children can also benefit from the scheme. He said “It’s almost paid for itself now, given how many things that we’ve been able to claim for. I went though some bad back problems last year and I’ve been having regular appointments with the chiropractor to help manage and prevent the issues, and I’m able to claim 75% of the costs back each time.”

“The app is so easy to use; you can track all your used and available benefits and the claims you’ve made so far, and then you can easily find the option you’re looking for when you process a new claim. All you need to do is add an electronic receipt or photo and that’s it, the money goes straight into your bank about three or four days later. It’s a no-brainer!”

Mental Health First Aiders/My Possible Self App
A key component of general health is mental wellbeing, and this is an issue that men in particular often suffer in silence with. We have trained Mental Health First Aiders on-site who are available to speak to colleagues when needed, and an app called ‘My Possible Self’ which offers interactive tools and activities to help manage your own mental wellbeing.

One colleague, who wished to remain anonymous, opened up about his experiences of the services available: “I think that I’d been really struggling with anxiety and depression for about three months before I reached out to Frankie, one of our Mental Health First Aiders. Following the discussions I had with Frankie and the management team, I was allowed to take some time away from work and then work out a schedule for easing me back in at my own pace.”

“I never felt any pressure from anyone to rush back before I was ready, and my team were so supportive. Frankie has been incredible; she checked in with me when I was away from the business and having someone to talk to that you trust is so important.”Over a year later, the difference has been significant, with the colleague now working his normal hours and above. He did recognise that this was an issue that may never fully go away and still uses the app occasionally to keep on top of how he’s feeling.

He was keen to encourage others to take advantage of the support that is available: “I honestly don’t know where I’d be if I didn’t have the support. It’s also nothing to be embarrassed about and I hope that sharing my experience will help others come forward. If it helps one person, it will have been worth it.”

Employee Assistance Programme
After speaking to our Mental Health First Aiders, they can refer colleagues to our Employee Assistance Programme, a professional counselling service that can offer help with major life issues including stress, debt and bereavement, as well as other information and guidance.

This service is available free of charge for the first six sessions, and is strictly confidential. It only takes a brief description of the issues to be matched with a qualified counsellor, who can then offer support for as many sessions as is required.

One of our Machine Shop Controllers began using the counselling service about two months ago to help manage a difficult situation he was having in his home life: “I was struggling to deal with my partner’s son, who has severe ADHD, in the most constructive way and it was causing tension in our home. I had an initial consultation with the service, who referred me to the right person, and I’ve since had five sessions, with two more booked in the diary.”

“They have helped me to manage my own reactions and reconsider my behaviour, so that I can deal with the situations in a calmer way. I’ve also been able to better understand the behaviour of my partner’s son, through advice from my counsellor and reading online articles about ADHD. It’s definitely led to a better state of mind for me, and a better atmosphere at home.”

He recommended the service to anybody who might be struggling with an issue in their personal lives or at work: “It was so easy to set up and start speaking with someone. Since starting the sessions, I’ve noticed a massive difference.”

Polar Technology becomes members of the FAC

Tue, 21 May 2024 07:58:00 GMT

Polar Technology joins Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC)

We are delighted to announce that we have become members of the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC), the longest-established aerospace and defence body within the UK, who currently boast over 250 members.
The benefits of an FAC membership include facilitating local and international trading, technology transfer and development and sharing of best practice, ultimately allowing members to boost their market share.
This opportunity is reflective of Polar Technology’s aims to build on our existing relationships within the aerospace and defence sector, as well as exploring new ones.
For more information about the FAC and its membership, click here: FAC Home

Polar presents £3,000 to Maggie's Oxford

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 14:56:00 GMT

Polar raises money to support the local charity Maggie's Oxford

On the 29th February, Polar Technology presented Maggie's Oxford with a cheque of £3,000 which was raised by the team in a series of events carried out in 2023.

Maggie's is a hospice for all cancer care, Maggie's centre is a space for being together or for a moment alone, for getting going again or for meeting people who just get it.

The charity was nominated in 2022 by the team at Polar Technology to be their annual charity to support.

Tracy Dewhirst, Group Marketing Manager said, "it has been a pleasure to work with Maggie's and support them as much as we can. The social committee and I enjoyed thinking up fundraising events to support Maggie's; from bake sales, lottery draws, raffles to racing events. It was great fun and all for a good cause too!"

Pip Dingle, Centre Fundraising Manager Oxford also added, "Wow, what an incredible total! This is great news and will help so many people, thank you so much - to you and all at Polar. Thank you again for everything you have done for Maggie's."

Electrification & Sustainability Partnership

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 09:25:36 GMT

Witnessing Aircraft 1 take off and land

Last Thursday, The Polar Team were invited down to Bristol to witness one of the early flight tests for Aircraft 1.

Alex Edge, Strategic Business Manager at Polar commented, "It was great to see this - a fantastic joint accomplishment of a mature, well equipped supply chain that had brought this vision of electric flight to fruition".

To view the aircraft video, please click on the link below.

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7094597942811979777

Collaborating with Moog Controls Inc. on Hydrogen Storage Solutions

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 10:11:37 GMT

Polar Technology Management Group Ltd has developed a novel concept in hydrogen storage and is working with Moog Controls to develop an integrated hydrogen storage and management solution termed “Hydrogen in a Box”. The system benefits are based around optimal packaging efficiency, gravimetric efficiency and the ability to integrate valves and control systems into one optimised solution.

A six-month long technology evaluation process has been completed and test hardware will now be manufactured. The design has been evaluated as Type 3 and Type 4 version for both 350Bar and 700Bar applications.

Kieran Burley, Lead Engineer at Polar Technology said “This is a very exciting time to be working on hydrogen storage solutions, there are so many opportunities for innovation, optimization and integration. Combining novel design solutions along with innovative manufacturing processes we can package hydrogen storage efficiently in a series of co-dependent chambers forming a storage bank, rather than fitting a number of standard independent cylinders into the space.”

Mark Lawton, Moog’s General Manager of the Aircraft Control Components division stated, “It has been great for Moog to collaborate with Polar in providing novel methods to efficiently store and release hydrogen in mission critical environments. This project is an integral part of Moog’s commitment to develop future green technology for commercial air travel.”

The joint project will establish an appropriate specification and set of system level requirements for hydrogen storage and delivery systems for aircraft and other Industrial applications.

Lightweight Battery Containment

Wed, 03 May 2023 11:02:56 GMT

See us at Farnborough Air Show next week to talk about our lightweight battery containment!

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Polar Technology Management Group acquires the assets of Concept Tooling Ltd

Wed, 03 May 2023 11:02:53 GMT

We look forward to accelerating our plans for future growth

On 14 March 2023, Polar Technology acquired the assets of Concept Tooling Ltd, this will support existing customers from both businesses further accelerating growth and diversifying the organisation.

Scott Roberts, Co-Founder at Polar Technology said, “The acquisition of the assets of Concept Tooling significantly strengthens Polar Technology’s composite machining capability and capacity. We are delighted to welcome on board the team at Bicester who bring complementary skills to our operation and we look forward to accelerating our plans for future growth”.

Martin Dorney, Director at Concept Tooling added, ”This is great news for the team here at Concept Tooling as we can draw upon the skills and experience from the team at Polar by working together to meet both our customer’s requirements whilst maintaining the high level of service in place”.

Polar Technology will continue all operations from the same location in Bicester, retain key staff and offer the customers the same high level of service and support.

We're here to help our team!

Wed, 03 May 2023 11:02:10 GMT

The Polar Technology Group are committed to the wellbeing of our team members

Polar Technology Group which comprises of Lentus Composites and SST Technology are always looking out for the wellbeing of all our staff members.

Recently, four defibrillators were fitted onsite in the Horizon Technology Park, Eynsham where the businesses are based. This compliments the trained mental health first aiders and the benefits package health plan for staff and their families.

"This is a great addition to looking after our team members." said Sharon Barrett, Group HR Director.

For more information on how you can join us please visit our people page or alternatively get in contact!

Supporting the local charity Helen & Douglas House

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 08:56:19 GMT

Raising £2,000 for the local children's hospice

Lentus were proud to fundraise a total sum of £2,000 to Helen and Douglas House in Oxford to help support local families and their terminally ill children.

Mike Dewhirst, Chairman from Polar Technology Group said, “It has been a great pleasure to work with a local charity that our team chose to support. With the restrictions of the pandemic it proved a little difficult to organise fundraising events at the start but our internal social committee team became very creative with new fundraising ideas so it never stopped us adding to the charity pot!”.

“It was wonderful news and thank you so much for the £2,000 donation. Working with Polar on some events was so much fun. Hopefully our paths will cross again!” said Nardia Bissmire at Helen & Douglas House.

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 10:39:55 GMT

Come and see us at Advanced Engineering in November!

The Polar Group ( Lentus Composites and SST Technology ) are getting ready for the Advanced Engineering Show held next month at the NEC, Birmingham.

The Group will be showing a vast display of engineering excellence in both composites and metallic technology.

If you are planning on attending the show, please pop by and speak to our friendly team on stand P124 . To sign up please click here .

Lightweight Composite Gears and Torque Shafts

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 16:09:00 GMT

Showcasing our lightweight composite gears and torque shafts at Farnborough Air Show

A leader in composite product design, manufacture and composite to metallic joining, Lentus Composites, part of the Polar Technology Group, has a mature composite torque shaft technology used in a variety of applications across aerospace, high performance automotive and advanced transportation applications. The team is now applying its expertise in metallic to composite joining to significantly reduce weight and inertia in Gear applications.

Lentus has demonstrated a weight saving of 40% by replacing the gear body and in some cases the shaft with a composite solution, joining of this body and shaft to the metallic gear interface is achieved using a novel and robust mechanical joining technique.

For more information at Farnborough International Airshow, please see the Polar Team in Hall 3 stand 3820 who will be happy to discuss your requirements.

Lightweight Hydrogen Storage Solutions

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 10:28:33 GMT

A sustainable and healthier future

Using decades of experience in the design and manufacture of lightweight composite reinforced pressure vessels, Lentus, part of the Polar Technology Group is working on developing high pressure Hydrogen Storage solutions which are focused on optimising weight and improving overall packaging efficiency.

Solutions of varying levels of maturity are in development based around Type 3, Type 4 and hybrid Type 4-5 technology. Lentus offers the benefit of developing tailored solutions for its customers which means envelope, volume, ports can specified according to the customer's exacting requirements.

The Polar Technology Group is also working on a collaborative Innovate UK / Advanced Propulsion Centre supported project with Ultima Forma and the National Composite Centre developing electro deposited liner technology for hydrogen storage tanks aiming to further reduce weight and overall package efficiency.

For more information at Farnborough International Airshow, please see the Polar Team in Hall 3 stand 3820 who will be happy to discuss your requirements.

Thank you Team!

Thu, 12 May 2022 12:39:37 GMT

The Group are awarded with fresh pizzas for their achievement

Lentus and sister brand SST Technology celebrated their achievement of reaching their monthly target with fresh pizzas for lunch!

Following the pandemic, the recovery period has been slow for the Group but with the positive attitude and hard work from the team, the Polar Group were delighted to meet their monthly target in April.

Local company Sartorelli's provided the team with their delicious fresh pizzas, which everyone enjoyed.

Lentus - Leading Nominee for Export Achievement

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 10:05:20 GMT

Lentus Composites has been shortlisted as one of the four leading nominees for the MIA Export Achievement Award

Lentus are pleased to announce that they have been shortlisted as one of the four leading nominees for the MIA Export Award to be presented on 23rd March at the NEC, Birmingham.

The MIA (Motorsport Industry Association) Business Excellence Awards are prestigious awards that have been decided by the industry and MIA members. Lentus have been members of the MIA for over 6 years and the team would welcome this achievement with open arms! Watch this space for the results.

For more details on the MIA please visit www.the-mia.com

New year, new machines!

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 11:48:30 GMT

A new kit cutting machine and a burn-off oven was installed this week at the Polar Group to help extend their capabilities further.

New machines were installed at the Polar Group to enhance the engineering capabilities that both Lentus Composites and SST Technology already have.

"We are always looking to improve our processes making them leaner and cleaner for the environment. I am very pleased that these two machines are added to our in-house machine shop allowing us to deliver better products to our customers in the most efficient and effective way. " says Brad Airey, Group Machine Shop Manager.

The new kit cutter will improve process speed and the efficiency in material usage which will help with the environment and enhance sustainability.

The burn-off oven has many benefits; it will capture better data, reduce emissions from the burn-off process and increase the speed of process times whilst giving us a bigger capacity in processing more parts at once.

Recruitment Open Day - Join Us!

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 16:39:52 GMT

Fancy a change in 2022?

Celebrating Long Service Awards

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 13:43:07 GMT

On Wednesday 18th August saw a group of colleagues being treated to a well deserved lunch with senior members of the Polar Management Team.

The celebratory lunch was for the Long Service Awards at Lentus Composites and SST Technology – celebrating 5 and 10 years of service within the Polar Technology Group.

“It was great to see how many of the team have remained loyal throughout the years. Feels like one big family!”, said Mike Dewhirst, Co-chairman.

The five year service awards were presented with a £400 voucher and the ten year service awards were presented with our personalised special TAG Heuer watch.

Lentus has secured Government funding

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 13:37:59 GMT

Lentus are pleased to announce the recent capital secured from Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership grant to help support a high tech engineering project.

Lentus was one of 34 businesses from across Oxfordshire set to benefit from a £2.15m investment fund, created by the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership earlier this year to support the economic recovery from COVID-19.

Further details can be found here .

Lentus involved with developing the next generation of hydrogen storage tanks for HGV and Buses

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 13:18:16 GMT

A consortium of UK companies, Ultima Forma, Lentus Composites and the National Composites Centre (NCC), have joined forces to develop a novel, high pressure hydrogen storage tank aimed for use in HGV, bus and off highway applications.

Project HYSTOR has secured funding as part of the Advanced Propulsion Centre’s (APC) Automotive Transformation Fund. The project, led by Ultima Forma, brings together a novel electroformed integrated metallic liner overwrapped with composite that will bring weight reduction and other advantages over current solutions in the market today. The patented thin walled liner provides an impermeable hydrogen membrane onto which structural carbon fibre is wound by Lentus Composites using automated filament winding equipment.

Steve Newbury, MD at Ultima Forma , said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Lentus and the NCC to bring to market improved storage solutions for high pressure hydrogen. Hydrogen propulsion systems are clearly identified as part of the UK’s Technology Roadmap and will play an increasingly significant role in the energy mix in the coming years. Pressurised storage systems are a key component where the UK supply chain can play an influential role in this growing energy economy.”

The project will undertake analysis, manufacture and initial testing of the vessel design proving feasibility and clear route to industrialisation and exploitation. The prototype vessels will be subjected to tests critical to achieving certification in the future, generating confidence that the product will perform to the challenging standards required in service.

Marcus Walls-Bruck, Chief Engineer for Hydrogen at the National Composites Centre, said: “Composite materials will have a significant role in the deployment of hydrogen. The NCC are excited to support the development of UK hydrogen supply chains, leveraging the investments the NCC have made in developing composites for hydrogen applications, and the expertise of Ultima Forma and Lentus Composites.”

As well as focusing on HGV applications where there is a compelling case for hydrogen propulsion, the HYSTOR team see opportunities for this technology in the adjacent rail, aerospace and space markets where hydrogen storage and minimal weight are critical requirements.

The project aims to complete in April 2022 at which stage the partners will shift their focus onto commercialisation and certification testing of first market entry products.

Lentus Composites – Sole supplier of a high performance composite propshaft solution for NASCAR’s 2022 Next Gen Cup Car

Wed, 19 May 2021 13:04:16 GMT

Lentus are pleased to announce that they are the sole supplier of a high performance composite propshaft solution to the Next Gen platform which uses Lentus’ proprietary joining and flexible coupling technology.

The NASCAR Next Gen is the future generation of chassis to be used in the Cup series and is aimed at making the cars more cost-effective while simultaneously enhancing driver safety.

The Lentus solution brings benefits in terms of vehicle architecture, overall performance and crash safety. It’s also a derivative of solutions which Lentus provides to several high performance OEM road going platforms, demonstrating a true technology transfer for NASCAR, “Race it on Sunday, Buy it on Monday.”

Daniel Chilcott, Business Development Director said, “Lentus are delighted to be selected as the official propshaft suppliers of the series and we would like to thank NASCAR for letting us be part of this exciting programme. We look forward to the Next Gen car racing next season!”

Happy Earth Day!

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 13:00:19 GMT

Lentus Composites is working to deliver exciting new products for a sustainable future.

Composite components form the enabling technology within high power density electric motors. These motors deliver high efficiency therefore allowing more range or smaller battery packs.

The hydrogen economy is getting ever closer and will form part of satisfying the world’s need for sustainable energy. Lentus are developing its range of high pressure storage vessels to meet the demands of hydrogen storage and working with group company SST Technology to deliver the cryogenic pipework to allow hydrogen to be transferred.

Lentus also have been employing hybrid tooling (flax bulking plies) where possible to reduce the carbon footprint of the components manufactured. With the environment issues in mind, Lentus are looking to move to full flax tooling in the near future for as many components as possible.