Trimline and PEC secure funding for modular cabins

Composite specialist PE Composites (PEC) and marine interior refurbishment firm Trimline have secured co-funding from Innovate UK to start producing and certifying lightweight composite cabins for the passenger shipping industry.

First launched as a prototype at SMM 2016, the lightweight composite cabin is designed for use onboard ferries, ocean and river cruise ships, and in the defence industry. It offers multiple benefits compared to traditional steel structures, including making it easier for shipowners to add more cabins in a smaller space. The cabins can also be designed with multiple finishing options, such as seamless walls.

During the next phase of development, PEC and Trimline will focus on reducing the cabin production cost and will develop a pilot production plant capable of making several hundred cabins per year by the end of 2018. The consortium will also develop a full production plant to satisfy the predicted increase in demand. Cabins will carry Marine Equipment Directive and other certifications relevant to each application and region.