RAPRA Technology Limited
RAPRA is Europe’s leading rubber and plastic research and consultancy provider. It has over 90 years experience of processing technology and materials characterisation. Comprising a multidisciplinary team of experts within all fields of polymer science, supported by a unique infrastructure of complementary science and technology departments, SRT has been providing a wealth of knowledge and research expertise to governments, industry and both public and private organisations throughout Europe and the world. Working closely with academia and industry, SRT continues to expand and grow in all areas of polymer science, investing regularly in the advancement of core research skills through internally funded development schemes. Major external funding support in recent years has helped to develop and maintain state-of-the-art research expertise, equipment and facilities, providing a strong research base in all areas of polymer science and technology. With two sites in the UK, employing 120 highly qualified technical personnel from all areas of polymer and related sciences, SRT provides a wealth of polymer technology services, including research and technological development; testing and analysis; rubber and plastics consultancy; technology training; and Europe’s leading information library. SRT has successfully led the development and co ordination of numerous large research projects, funded by industry and regional, national and European funding schemes, including 25 FP5, 6, and 7 projects, providing a wealth of experience and expertise in project management and co-ordination. Since 2006, SRT has been part of the Smithers Group, a world leader in the fields of testing, research, consulting and certification services. This synergistic alliance has broadened the core competencies of SRT and broadened its client base outside Europe.
The role that RAPRA will perform in THERMALCOND project is focused on: Extrusion and optimisation of pipe profile meeting the specifications (reliability, durability, and thermal conductivity) set out by the end users. The characterisation, analysis and testing of pipe profile and the validation of thermal solar systems in terms of reliability and durability according to European standard EN 12975-2:2006.
RAPRA will use its expertise in materials processing, performance, selection, durability, environmental effects and validation testing to produce and assess pipe profile made from the developed polyolefin composite materials. Finally, RAPRA will assess prototype solar thermal collectors in terms of reliability, durability and comparative thermal performance according to EN 12975-2:2006.
