Airtech Advanced Materials Group unveiled new high temperature (up to 426ºC) vacuum bagging materials for thermoplastic molding processes in September. The products include:
The Thermalimide RCBS is a high performance release film which is treated on both sides for cure temperature up to 761°F (405°C) making it an ideal use for forming process of thermoplastic materials and other high temperature applications.
The film offers flexibility for applying pressure over simple contoured shapes and also comes off easily and quickly as it has excellent release off cured parts. High elongation and release films are widely used in the motorsport industry where Airtech is a long established supplier.
The Fast Tack HT, is an improved new generation sealant for high temperature applications. It is reported to build tack quickly when applied to Thermalimide. It benefits by adhering well to polyamide films.
According to Airtech, the tape has good room temperature adhesion to the high temperature bagging film, which reduces the time required to vacuum bag high temperature parts.
The Airweave UHT 300PGL and Airweave UHT 450PGL are said to be premium non-woven blended, fiberglass breather for ultra high temperature applications, safer to use in place of woven fiberglass breathers. These breathers reportedly make easier transition for the vacuum bag and in any radius, maintaining the vacuum levels at very high temperatures.
According to Airtech, the Airweave UHT 300PGL and Airweave UHT 450PGL are designed for high temperature thermoset and thermoplastic resin systems. Reportedly, one layer provides good breathing to 800°F (427°C).
According to Stratview Research, the global composite vacuum consumables market is expected to experience a healthy growth rate over the next five years to reach US$ 634.4 million in 2023. Composites are one of the most versatile materials with the availability of various manufacturing processes. The overall performance of composite parts is highly correlated with the selection of manufacturing process. Vacuum consumables prove to be decisive in some of the manufacturing processes including VARTM and prepreg layup in fabricating composite parts with high mechanical performance including the excellent surface finish. Vacuum consumables are the most widely used consumables in the composites industry and these materials also assist composite part fabricators to enhance the overall process efficiency. Over a period of time, vacuum consumables have witnessed a disruptive journey with significant changes happening on the improvements in materials and technologies. Major players have developed innovative vacuum consumables, such as reusable silicone bag membrane, targeting many existing un-filled industry requirements including the low-cost system and multiple usability of bags.
Stay tuned to the latest news and reports on composites and other industries by following us on Linkedin, Twitter, and Facebook.
News and Image Source: Airtech Advanced Materials Group
