James Walker expands UK research facilities

ERJ staff report (LMH)

Crewe, UK - Sealing specialist James Walker has expanded its research and development capabilities with the opening of a £500 000 (Euro 641 000), purpose-built laboratory facility within the James Walker Elastomer Technology Centre in Crewe, UK.

The new temperature controlled mechanical and analytical laboratories are kitted out with the latest instrumentation for differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis plus FTIR spectroscopy, equalling the very best facilities available for this type of work, James Walker said in a 24 July news release.

Full tensile and compression testing facilities are also included, with an environmental chamber allowing this work to be carried out across a full temperature range, whilst the dedicated 'wet' chemistry section incorporates 12 ovens with comprehensive data logging facilities.

The creation of the new facility is only part of the work being undertaken at the James Walker Technology Centre, with the company's pilot mixing plant and rheology laboratory also undergoing expansion.

“Solving our customer's immediate problems quickly and effectively is a cornerstone of our business. This was highlighted when our new equipment was called into action within days of installation by a customer in the nuclear industry needing a highly accurate and specialised regime to be carried out, assessing component behaviour under a simulated critical process,“ commented laboratory manager Andrew Douglas.

“Being able to carry out work like this and then manufacture a practical solution based on accurate test data is what we are known for. Many of our customers are as excited as we are about our investment in new laboratories and test rigs because they can see the benefits they will gain from this facility.

James Walker provides high performance fluid sealing products, made from rubber and other elastomers, polymers, plastics and compositives, to a variety of different industries such as construction, defence, marine and wind energy.

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