Plastics and Composites

Plastics_Student
Since 1974, the Cerritos College Plastics Manufacturing Department (PMT) has been a leader in state-of-the-art technical education. Designed for students aiming for careers in commercial manufacturing, our program bridges the gap between classroom theory and industry practice. Whether you are new to the field or an experienced professional looking to stay competitive in a global market, we provide the cutting-edge skills you need to succeed.

EQUIPMENT

Composite Manufacturing:

Our facility features a 30 sq. ft. walk-in curing oven and a 6 sq. ft. lab oven, allowing us to cure prepreg composite materials with precision. These ovens transform soft, pliable prepregs into rigid, high-strength components with superior structural integrity.

Curing Oven


Injection Molding:

Our Plastics department features a BabyPlast injection molding machine paired with a Mortto dryer, serving as the introductory step for small-production molding. Additionally, students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard Nissei 50-ton and Boy 22-ton machines, working with both analog and digital controls.

BabyPlast Injection Molding Machine

We provide high-efficiency chillers designed specifically to cool injection molds. Our systems use internal cooling channels to rapidly dissipate the heat generated by molten plastics, protecting your equipment and reducing production downtime.

Tempek Chiller


Thermoforming:

We utilize an industrial-grade Formech vacuum former as a cornerstone of our Plastics Manufacturing curriculum. This equipment allows for the fast, cost-effective creation of complex three-dimensional shapes.

Formech Machine

Formech Result

 

 


Extruding:

Our lab features the Filabot Airpath, a specialized cooling system that uses forced air to stabilize filament as it’s extruded. This system works in tandem with the Filabot Spooler to provide easier setups and greater precision for common materials like ABS and PLA. It is especially critical for research involving high-temperature polymers, where controlled cooling is necessary before spooling. With integrated speed monitoring, students and researchers can maintain the perfect consistency for every batch.

Filabot


Molding Machines:

Our lab is equipped with multiple rotational machines to support a variety of manufacturing techniques. We feature the Power Lab #812
 for high-quality hot rotational molding, as well as the BJB CPE 615 Rotational Casting Machine, specifically designed for processing two-part plastics like urethane.

BJB Roational Casting Machine

Our lab features a Carver Inc. compression molding press, engineered for high-precision material processing. This system is equipped with advanced heating and cooling platens managed by a programmable digital controller. With independent thermal loops for each platen and customizable cooling programs, students can achieve the exact cooling rates required for professional-grade results.

Carver Molding Press


3D Printing:

Our lab is equipped with multiple Airwolf 3D printers, allowing students to seamlessly transition from digital design to physical reality. These machines translate complex CAD data into high-precision, three-dimensional parts, providing a cornerstone for our additive manufacturing curriculum.

Airwolf 3D Printer


Testing Equipment:

Our Stuart melting point apparatus features digital temperature selection, measurement, and display, ensuring precise results and eliminating the need for a traditional thermometer.

Stuart Melting Point Apparatus


Large Fabrication Equipment:

We use a Grizzly Industrial 18" variable-speed vertical metal bandsaw for our non-composite materials.

Grizzle 18" Vertical Bandsaw
 

 

We offer four certificates of achievement

  • Composites Manufacturing
  • Composite Inspection
  • Plastics Manufacturing
  • Composite Tool Design

Plastics and composite ROADMAP

Contact For More Information
Dr. Miodrag Micic
Engineering Technology Department Chair
(562) 860-2451, Extension 2910

email Mickey

Interested in obtaining your Certificate and/or Degree?


  • Find Out If You Meet The Requirements
    To view course descriptions and available certificates, please refer to the current schedule and catalog.

  • Determine Which Form
    View and download the Forms for:
    -Petition for Certificate
    -Petition for Degree
    -Petition for Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer.

  • Meet With A Counselor
    Fill out your form and meet with a Counselor to make sure you meet all the requirements.