#chemistry

A brief history of FTC

FTC is founded by Joseph Hsu. With a background in chemistry he was able to develop a new molding process for fiber-reinforced plastics. The innovation lies in using a inflatable bladder inside the product during the molding. This bladder-molding highly reduces voids and optimizes lay-up compression in a very cost-efficient manufacturing process.

In 1978, Joseph patented this innovative bladder molding process and was therefor the pioneer in carbon fiber and glass fiber sporting goods production. FTC broke into this sports market and started production of tennis racquets, golf shafts, ski poles and wind-surfing products.

Fast-forward to the late 1980s, when FTC implements filament winding and rolling processes, which enabled the production of tube-like products. This allowed FTC to introduce ice hockey sticks in the early 90s. By 2000, FTC is leading the market in manufacturing composite ice hockey sticks and is manufacturing for most of the top brands.

By 2006, FTC extended the tube-like sports product range with the production of carbon fiber baseball and softball bats. And in 2010, FTC innovates further and patents an anti-vibration carbon fiber baseball bat. FTC is now producing these bats for leading international brands.

FTC entered into the cycling industry in 2011, when we designed and began production of carbon fiber composite cycling shoe soles.

This eventually led to the development of carbon fiber bicycle rims and components, including frames, handlebars and saddles.

Today, FTC’s legacy of innovation inspires us to continue to strive to be at the forefront of testing and technology, to produce nothing less than the best products in the market.