ADDEV Parafix at University of Brighton

ADDEV Parafix continue to build on their relationship with the University of Brighton, this time through collaboration with 3M. Michael Punter, Managing Director of ADDEV Parafix and Edwin Eve, Technical Manager from 3M visited the University to talk to the product design staff and students to educate them on the huge range of advantages of using adhesives and tapes over other fixings. It is, ultimately, hoped to bring their industry knowledge into education and the syllabus.

Students were enlightened on the many qualities and benefits of using adhesives which include:

• Strength
• Distribution of localised stresses, reducing fatigue
• Absorption of stress
• Absorption of noise
• Creation of seals
• Expansion and contraction tolerance
• Quick bonding
• Lighter in weight
• Broad range of applications

ADDEV Parafix and 3M work closely with their customers on each specific project to find the most appropriate product based on certain factors such as the materials that are being adhered, the situations they will be in and how the adhesives can be designed into the product. Now they are hoping to work with educational institutions to learn about how much students and engineers know about the products and solutions that are available and to fill in any ‘gaps’.

Speaking of the day Michael Punter said: “I was impressed by the enthusiasm and very genuine interest in wanting to learn more about pressure sensitive tapes in all shapes and conversions”. The final year students are now looking at how pressure sensitive tapes could be incorporated into their projects and how to choose the right adhesive for certain uses and situations.

The product design courses contain a range of modules and topics that aim to give students experience in conceptual design, fully functional design and technologies, commercially viable products and professional skills. Specifically, some of the subjects are materials, manufacture, ergonomics, mechanisms, drawing, CAD, sustainability and marketing. The University said of the day: “Working with companies like ADDEV Parafix gives the students an insight into industry, allowing them to build upon knowledge and experiences from their professional placements”.

For more information on the work of the Centre for Design Technology at the University of Brighton visit here and to find out the latest news from their blog see here.