Genmar® is the leader in the development and use of the most advanced technology for boat manufacturing. Most notable, perhaps, is the revolutionary Virtual Engineered Composite fiberglass molding system, better known as the VEC® process. Unlike traditional labor-intensive fiberglass open molding, the VEC® system is a computer-controlled, automated closed-mold process. Production takes place in a self-contained cell, and the completed hulls—incorporating the entire stringer system and boat floor—are so precise in material portions, bonding and thickness, they are both stronger and lighter than conventional versions.
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Protecting our environment
The VEC® process is four times faster than open molding and, importantly, reduces styrene emissions during lamination by more than 90 percent. The VEC® process injects resins and catalyst into a closed mold. Because the mold is closed, more styrene is forced to bond with the composite rather than escaping into the air, making the finished component much stronger while protecting the environment. The bottom line: better boats and a cleaner environment.
Better Boats
The precision of the VEC® process (computers constantly monitor more than 500 variables) results in unprecedented quality. Decks and hulls are consistent in weight, density and thickness and come out of the mold with a glossy luster to the finish, inside and out.
Genmar is systematically implementing VEC® technology into its fiberglass boat manufacturing facilities because it is environmentally friendly and increases the durability and structural integrity of boats.
Lifetime limited warranty
The VEC® process also allows Genmar to offer customers who purchase a VEC®-manufactured boat the best warranty in the industry - a lifetime limited warranty that's transferable to a second owner.
Recognition
VEC® Technology was most recently honored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency with the 2002 Clean Air Excellence Award in the category of Air Technology. The VEC® process has also been recognized by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative in 2001 and was selected by the editors of Popular Mechanics to receive a 2001 Design & Engineering Award. Chosen by the Editors of Motor Boating and Sailing magazine, the Innovation Award for 2000 was presented to recognize our role in developing leading edge technology in the marine industry. The VEC® process won Environmental and Innovation categories at the 2000 Teckne Awards, Minnesota's highest recognition for technology advances, and also earned the 1999 Minnesota Governor's Award for Excellence in Waste and Pollution Management. A feature article on the VEC® process also appeared in the July 31, 2000 issue of Time Magazine.
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