Materials

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Composites are varied and offer a wide range of benefits depending upon the application.

 

Our design team has extensive experience at working with composites. We will work closely with you to ensure that the performance of the materials is maximised for your particular purpose.

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For more detailed information on materials, visit the American Composites Manufacturers' Association website. Below is an abridged version from its summary page.

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Resins

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The primary functions of the resin are to transfer stress between the reinforcing fibers, act as a glue to hold the fibers together and protect the fibers from mechanical and environmental damage. Resins used in reinforced polymer composites are either thermoplastic or thermoset (eg epoxy, vinylester, polyester, phenolic and polyurethane).

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Reinforcements

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The mechanical properties of FRP (fibre reinforced polymer)

composites are dependent on the type, amount, and

orientation of fiber that is selected for a particular service.

Fibre reinforcements carry load along the length of the fiber

to provide strength and stiffness in one direction.

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Fibres include glass, carbon, aramid and several new fibres. 

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Reinforcements include multi end and single rovings; mats

and veils; woven, stitched, braided and 3-D fabrics; 

unidirectional; prepreg; and milled.

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Additives and Fillers

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Additives are used in composites to modify materials’ properties and tailor the laminate’s performance. When added to the resin, fillers can improve properties including water resistance, weathering, surface smoothness, stiffness, dimensional stability and temperature resistance.

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Additives include thixotropes; pigments and colorants; fire retardants; suppressants;

UV inhibitors and stabilizers; conductive additives; and release agents.

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Fillers include calcium, kaolin, alumina trihydrate and calcium sulfate.

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Core

 

Core materials are used extensively throughout the composites industry to fabricate stiff and yet lightweight composites products. Core material is “sandwiched” between fiber reinforced laminate skins to significantly increase stiffness and flexural strength while reducing warpage of flat surfaces.

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Core materials include balsa, cross-linked PVC foam, thermoplastic foam, polyurethane foam, syntactic foam, linear PVC foam, honeycomb, PMI foam, fiber reinforced core and core fabrics (laminate bulkers).

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Surface Finishes

 

Surface finishes are mainly used for UV protection, corrosion resistance and aesthetics. They can be molded in process or secondarily applied coatings and support the long term appearance of composite products.

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Finishes include gel coat, surface veils, adhesives, ultraviolet, protection and painting.

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