INTRODUCTION

Soric is a bulker material that is designed to be placed in a sandwich with fibre reinforced skins. In this capacity, Soric allows impact behavior of a sandwich close to that of a full glass laminate.

Soric TF is typically used to improve the surface of a composite laminate.
The other Soric grades build thickness and act as a flow medium in infusion and RTM. Historical impact tests have proven that a laminate with Soric has comparable resistance to impact as a full fibre laminate. In order to assess whether the failure mechanism is also comparable, a series of comparative impact tests is performed. For impact testing a drop weight tower is used.
In order to assess the total damage in the laminate, ultrasonic C-scan is used.

From each considered laminate a panel will be selected which will be cut along a damaged area in order to compare the failure mode. Main mode of failure is breaking (fracturing) of the resin. No inter-laminar failures occur. In light of the test results it is recommendable to add a layer of CSM between the barrier coat and the Soric.

ADOPTING LANTOR SORIC
This document is originally a part of the campaign to adopt Lantor Soric into a yacht infusion process.
In particular, the Soric TF is assessed as a surface enhancer. Soric TF is a bulker material that is designed to be placed in a sandwich with fibre reinforced skins. In this capacity, Soric TF allows impact behavior of a sandwich close to that of a full glass laminate.

GOAL
To analyze the failure mode after impact in a laminate with Soric

RESULTS

FAILURE MODE
Below the cross sections of a selected hole (impacted with 27 Joule) for each laminate is given.
The cross-section in panel 1A location 3, which is impacted at 61 Joule, is presented first.
This location is the one with the clearest damage and will be used to analyze the failure mechanics involved.
breakline
Possible fibre
No fibre between Soric and barrier coat
Perpendicular
Fibre bundle

The first layer of CSM seems to be interrupted next to the centre of the impacted area.
The absence of any dark spots between the fibre layers and the Soric
indicates the absence of interlaminar (delamination) failures.
A break line can be seen running through the Soric XF, indicating a break in the core.
The laminate cross-section becomes ‘whiter’ to the center below the impacted area.
This is because of the damage to the resin, or the breaking of the resin,
making the otherwise transparent polyester resin opaque.
Because the opacity of the damaged resin ‘masks’ the fibres of the top EQX layer, fibre breaking cannot be established.

The absence of indicators for delamination and the shift in resin opacity nearer to the impacted area, shows that the observed damage areas from the c-scan indicate the area where the resin in the core is broken and does not indicate delamination as it would do for full fibre laminates. The darker areas in the fibre layers are the fibre bundles perpendicular to the cross-section surface.
Of the failure symptoms only the impact location and matrix cracks can be observed.

CONCLUSIONS
Under impact, a laminate without any CSM between the barrier coat and the Soric TF will suffer a damaged area almost two times as large as a laminate with CSM 600gsm between the barriercoat and Soric TF.
Applying CSM 450gsm results in a 30% larger damaged area.
Main mode of failure is breaking (fracturing) of the resin, which can be observed visually as the resin becoming less transparent (opaque, whiter) near the impact area.
No delamination, separation of fibre layer and core, is observed. Fibre breaking of the EQX cannot be seen. Impact deformation is fully absorbed by the Soric TF and XF.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Consider using Soric as a bulker material when delamination after impact is a design concern.
In light of the test results it is recommendable to add a layer of CSM between the barriercoat and the Soric TF. This will significantly reduce the damaged area after impact and therefore the area that should be repaired.
Applying a greater mass of CSM reduces the damaged area even further. Because the TF is applied mainly for cosmetic purposes it is recommended to apply a fine fibre CSM (200-450gsm). The fibres in CSM of 450 gsm and below have fibres with a smaller diameter, leading to better surface finish and less obvious print-through. To obtain the impact behavior of adding a CSM 600gsm, two layers of CSM 300gsm may be considered.

Introduction
SC 110 is a new cosmetic grade prepare that utilises a high clarity, versatile, hot-melt epoxy resin formulation.

The unique formulation ensures that no dicey white-wash or spots are evident in the cured resin, reducing scrap rate by up to 20%. It is ideal for manufacturing high visual quality components using autoclave and press moulding. It can be cured at temperatures as low as 80°C, or it can be used for faster moulding of components at 120°C. Even faster cures are achievable using press moulding technologies at temperatures up to 150″C. This is achieved whilst maintaining good out-life of up to 3 weeks at 21″C. It is a toughened system, and offers excellent mechanical properties on a wide variety of reinforcing

Features :
Ultra high clarity- ideal for cosmetic components with no white-wash or spots
High-strength prepreg system
Versatile process window with autoclave, and press moulding
Curable at temperatures as low as 80°C
Fast 1 hour cure at 120°C
Rapid 10min cure at 150°C in a press
Excellent tack allowing easy in-mould repositioning

            ROBUST DEVELOPMENT VALIDATION

During the development of SC 110, extensive beta testing has been conducted to manufacture the most challenging cosmetic components in order to demonstrate the robustness of the unique dicey-free resin formulation. Light curvature, resin rich seams and numerous components have been produced through autoclave and press moulding processes without any sign of white wash or spots.

IMPROVED WEATHERING PERFORMANCE
In order to measure the weathering performance, SC 110 was benchmarked using a OUV SE Accelerated Weathering Tester with the following cycle: 4hrs condensation at 50°C I 4hrs UV exposure at 60°C I 28 days of exposure.

The subsequent loss in gloss measurement after 28 days was found to be significantly lower than competitor materials.

Other products from Gurit
Other products in Gurits new automotive prepreg materials include:

SE200-STRUCTURALPREPREG
Toughened structural epoxy prepreg with excellent hot/wet performance.
Achieves a Tg > 200°C after press curing in 15 minutes at 195°C
Suitable for compression moulding, autoclave or vacuum bag processing

PN 901 -HIGH TG PREPREG
Cyanate Ester prepreg with good mechanical performance at high temperatures.
Can achieve a Tg > 300°C after a post-cure temperature of 180 to 300°C
Ideal for components exposed to high temperatures for short durations

The need for Fire Retardant resins.

During fire, the most hazardous ingredient is smoke, rather than heat/temperature. A fire occurs when fuel, heat and oxygen come in contact. If one of them is removed, the fire can be stopped.

Fuel: Resin, Catalyst, Rags, Wood, Paper, Plastic Sheeting, Composites. An unsaturated polyester resin basically acts as fuel.

Heat: Smoking, Hot Work, Electrical Equipment, Pilot Lights, Floor Scrubbers, Sparks from Tool Strikes, Static Electricity, Chemical Reaction, Curing, etc.

Oxygen: Found in air. Good ventilation is mandatory in composite operations so there will be lots of oxygen and it will be hard to stop. Lots of surface area (e.g. rags, sprayed resin) affords more contact for oxygen to get into the mix.

Chain Reaction: The Fire Process (sustained burning).The burning process is quite complex and described by the Fire Triangle.
If one angle is missing, the fire is over!

Flammability Properties of un-cured Resins (Liquid form)
Flammability of resin when in liquid form is usually related to the styrene monomer content
Flash Point Range74 –84°F, Class 1C
Flammable Limits (in air)Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) = 0.9%, Upper Explosive Limit (UEL)
= 6.8%This would be intolerable in the breathing zone (NOTE: 1% = 10,000 ppm) Styrene vapors are heavier than air and can collect in low areas
Vapors may also travel great distances to ignition sources

Atomization of liquids effects ignitability. Atomized combustible liquids can easily ignite when used in spray applications.

Fire Retardants, an Indian Perspective
• IS 6746-1994 / UL 94 V0 Compliance (Flammability)
• Filled System Primarily comprise of Halogen additives and Synergistic Flame Retardants like ATH / Antimony trioxide
• If FR Application is for Outside exposure conditions an UV absorber is added in the resin system.
• Applications to which these systems would be used are HLU/RTM/Pultrusion
• Resin System would be designed to have an Ortho/ ISO / Vinyl ester base polymer

Note: Other standards like ASTM E-84, NFF 16 101, EN 45545, etc. are getting more importance in India Specified by Leading OEM especially in Railways and Building & Construction.

A quick look at FR standards :

A. Test compliance IS 6746-1994
Very Low Flammability resins extinguishes in less than 10 Sec and low Flammability less than 25 sec.

Other Compliances to be Met on specific needs of customer are :
ASTM D 635 – Flame Spread
BS 476 part 7 : Surface Spread of Flame
IS 15061/2002 : Burning Characteristic Vertical/Horizontal
ASTM D 2863 – LOI / ASTM D 149 – Electrical

Ashland India’s Product Range
Resins Orthopthalic Base – Aropol IN 2645F, 7102F Resins Isopthalic Base
Aropol IN 5225F

B. Test compliance ASTM E 84 –
Tunnel Test Mainly for CR applications Derakane Resins 510 Series comply to this requirement

C. Test compliance Flame Smoke Toxicity (Non Halogenated System) UIC 564 / NCD 1409/ IS 13501
• Flame : Class B
• Smoke : Class B
• Toxicity : 1

Ashland India’s product Range
Aropol IN 2645 F/ Enguard SO 90202 A IN V3 ( Ortho UPR) Aropol IN 5225 F / Maxguard FRN 10001 A IN V3 ( ISO UPR)

Applications include: Railway coaches/window frames/Cable trays/ Pultruded Platforms CR/FR- Electrical Fuse gear/ Switching and Insulated Rods and profiles,Halogenated – Non Filled System Automotive Vehicles

D. Test compliance Horizontal/Vertical Burning rate IS 15061-2002 Cl 3.2 Annexe A/ Cl 3.3 Annexe B
• Horizontal : Less Than 100mm/Min
• Vertical : Less than 100mm/min

Ashland India’s product Range
Aropol / Hetron resins HLU/RTM/Infusion System Automotive Vehicles
Flammability requirement
Aropol IN 2016 TF / GelCoat Enguard SO 90201 A IN V3 Ortho UPR)

A quick glance – Ashland Products Vs. FR Test results*

* The results obtained at third party laboratories

UV versions of AROPOL IN 5225F and 5335F meets the requirement of ASTM G 154

We all know that our readers are aware about the safety norms & precautions to be taken for safe working. But we thought, that reminding our readers of what they know is important With this in mind we have tried to prepare a wall – chart for you.

We expect you can print & paste this in your work area. To bring home the point,
we have taken help of some images & slogans.

INDUSTRIAL SAFETY WALL CHART 

IS YOUR COMPANY RISK-READY?

Industrial Safety is of prime concern in our workshops and shopfloors. Are companies today doing enough to ensure the safety of their premises and employees? There are two ways to protect and preserve your assets both human and material:

1. Ensure that adequate fire precautions are in place, and employees and materials are protected in an untoward situation A fire safety plan, regular drills, and the proper storage and handling of combustible material will go a long way in protecting your employees and premises in case of a fire. Ensure that electrical earthing is done properly, and machine safety procedures are in place.

2. Material insurance for safety
In case of a fire, material loss is huge. To avoide losses, ensure that you have adequate material insurance in place. Industrial al risk policies are the norm today.

Gurit has developed a broad range of tried, tested and qualified performance prepreg systems and structural core materials that are ideally suited to manufacture weight-optimised laminate structures, sandwich or crushed-core components that exceed the customers’ performance criteria and the most stringent safety requirements of the global rail market. Gurit is already known as a trusted supplier of composite materials for interior and structural aerospace applications.

Gurit prepregs are used in a growing range of rail projects from High-Speed to Subway trains across the globe. From concept to product development and into production, Gurit’s experience and understanding ensure products are delivered on time and to specification.

MAXIMUM PASSENGER COMFORT

Sandwich constructions are an ideal way to achieve optimal results and meet passenger requirements. In a sandwich panel, two outer material layers provide a stable and smooth surface, while a lightweight core section adds stiffness and insulation, both ideal for rail applications. Modern rail tracks are designed for speed – the straighter the tracks, the smoother and faster the ride. The topography or cityscape between two destinations is a given and the availability of land is often scarce. Therefore, fast, high-speed, urban train lines feature ever-longer tunnels and bridges, consequently travellers and train crew must be even better protected to get a maximum chance of safely escaping during the unlikely event of an emergency. This is a true call for phenolic prepregs!

MEETING THE MOST STRINGENT SAFETY STANDARDS

Favourable mechanical profiles are important, but chemical features of the material are equally vital, especially in terms of passenger safety requirments. The fire, smoke and toxicity performance (FST) is a top priority when selecting new materials. Gurit’s experience in the development of tailored, long-term solutions for the complex aerospace industry has allowed the development and market introduction of Gurit’s range of Phenolic and Epoxy prepregs to the rail market. The outstanding behaviours of Gurit’s prepregs include short burn lengths, lowest smoke densities and smoke toxicities and very low heat release values. The range of epoxy and phenolic prepregs and structural core materials now balance high performance, with the most stringent safety requirements for maximum passenger safety, including fire and fumes regulation EN45545.

PH 840
Phenolic Prepreg

Recyclable     High temp processing  Excellent FST properties 

• Tested to EN45545- HL3 Rating in R1 Category (highest rating)
• Excellent mechanical behaviour
• Good surface finish
• Autoclave-free processes possible
• Short curing t ime 15 min at 160⁰C/320⁰F
• long shelf and shop life                                                                                                                                           

INTRODUCTION

PH 840 is a haloge free modified phenolic system. designed for laminate with bright colour and good surface quality.

This prepreg material has been developed for industrial and rail applications with high specific mechanical properties and excellent
FST (low heat-release and smoke-density) behaviour.

PH 840 can be cured between 120⁰C and 160⁰C (248⁰F and 320⁰F) Monolithic and sandwich structures can be easily manufactured
with this prepreg. The curing can be performed by press. vacuum and autoclave moulding with a pressure of at least 0.7 bar / 10 psi.
Suitable for composite structures experiencing in-service temperatures of -55⁰C up to + 80⁰C.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

PH 840 is ideally suited to rail / industrial / commercial marine craft and automotive applications.

ST 70FR
Fire Retardant SPRINT^TM

Excellent FST properties70⁰C cure temperature SPRINT ^TMTechnology

INTRODUCTION

• Award winning SPRINT^TM Matrix
• Self extinguishing
• Suitable for Lioyds and MCA Compliant Structures
• Suitable for monolithic and sandwich structures
• Excellent laminate quality, from vaccum-only Processing
• Low smoke toxicity
• Halogen-free

ST 70FR is a fire retardant hot melt. Diuron free epoxy SPRINT^TM. This is ideally suited to the manufacture of thik requiring fire protection.It can be cured at temperatures as low as 70⁰C, but can also be used for the rapid manufacture of components through its 25-minute cure at 120⁰C. All of this can be achieved together with an outlife of 14 days at 20⁰C.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

Industrial / commercial manna craft and civil applications where thick tea retardant laminates are required.

G-PET^TM FR
Fire Retardant Structuctural Core

Excellent FST properties Recyclable High tem processing

INTRODUCTION

• Excellent FST performance (Evaluated against DIN 5510, ASTM E1354, ASTM E662 & BSS7239)
• Withstands high process temperatures
• Good adhesion & mechanical properties
• Compatible with all composite processes
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Recyclable
• Available with G-PET^TM lite technology

G-PET ^TM 75FR and G-PET ^TM 100FR have been developed in order to meet the growing need for structural core materials with good Fire,Smoke and Toxicity (FST) properties used in Marine, Civil and Transportation markets. It offers a much lower cost FST materia compared to high cost/ high performance materials such as PMI, PEl, PES foams. addressing lower requirements and needs.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

G-PET ^TM can be Processed at high temperatures. withstanding exotherms up to 150⁰C / 300⁰F and offers outstanding fatigue properties. chemical resistance, good adhesion. is a highly consistent extruded foam. it is ideal
for wind energy, marine. Industnal, and transportation applications. Applicable processing toctniques include vacuum infusion. bonding,prepreg. and thermoforming. Available in a wide range of thickness and finishes.

PRODUCT INFORMATION

Pre-Pigmented Gelcoats from Scott Bader are now Made in India using Scott Bader’s proprietary Gelcoat-making technology. Satyen Scott Bader has announced the launch of their Crystic Pre-Pigmented Gel Coats in India.

Satyen Scott Bader’s Gel Coats are designed using individually selected base resins depending on the requirements of the application. Crystic pre-pigmented gelcoats are manufactured using Crystic base pigments which have been thoroughly tested for long-term performance. The best quality pigments are selected to offer the lowest colour change and highest gloss retention. The company offers colour matching-service for customer-specific colours in addition to offering the products in standard RAL range. The gel coats have excellent resistance to osmosis (blistering) and have a low porosity finish. Crystic Gel Coats are tested and passed for 12 months Florida test for UV stability. These products find applications in various markets viz. marine, automotive, buildings, swimming pools, recreation, architecture etc. All Gelcoats are available in Brush and Spray versions.

Standard Gelcoats include :

Crystic 65E PA – Isophthalic Brush Gel Coat with excellent water resistance.
Crystic LS97PA – Low Styrene Content Isophthalic superior weathering gel coat with excellent water resistance and improved spray characteristics.
Crystic 69PA – Chemical and water resistant Isophthalic-NPG Brush Gel Coat.
Crystic 92PA – Chemical and water resistant Isophthalic-NPG Spray Gel Coat.

Isophthalic Brush Gelcoat  with Excellent Water Resistance.

Introduction

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA is a pre-accelerated, isophthalic gelcoat. It has been formulated for brush application, but spray versions are available. Crystic Gelcoat 65PA is available in a wide range of colours and the information contained in this technical data sheet also applies to these pigmented versions. A non-accelerated version, Crystic Gelcoat 65, can also be supplied.

Applications

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA is designed for use in the marine, building and transport industries. It is also suitable for general moulding requirements.

Features and Benefits

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA has excellent water and weather resistance.

Approvals

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA is approved by Lloyd’s Register of Shipping for use in the construction of craft under their survey.
When backed with Crystic 356PA, it is capable of obtaining a Class 1 certificate to BS476 Part 7 and of satisfying the requirements of the Building Regulations for a Class O structure. The same laminate can also achieve an M1 rating to the French Epiradiateur NFP 92-501 test.

Formulation

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA should be allowed to attain workshop temperature (18 ⁰C-20⁰C) before use. Stir well by hand, or with a low shear mixer to avoid aeration, and then allow to stand to regain thixotropy. Crystic Gelcoat 65PA requires only the addition of catalyst to start the curing reaction. The recommended catalyst is Butanox M50 (or other equivalent catalyst), which should be added at 2% into the gelcoat. (Please consult our Technical Service Department if other catalysts are to be used). The catalyst should be thoroughly incorporated into the gelcoat, with

The gelcoat, mould and workshop should all be at, or above 15⁰C before curing is carried out.

Application

For normal moulding, the application of Crystic Gelcoat 65PA should be controlled to 0.4-0.5 mm (0.015-0.020 inch) wet film thickness. As a guide, approximately 450-600 g/m2 of gelcoat mixture (depending on pigment) will give the required thickness when evenly applied.Application

Additives

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA is supplied in a wide range of colours. This eliminates the potential for mixing errors with small quantities of pigment paste. The addition of fillers or pigments can adversely affect the water and weather resistance of the cured gelcoat. Crystic Gelcoat 65PA can be used as a topcoat provided that 2% Crystic Solution MW is added to overcome the normal tackiness.

Recommended Testing

It is recommended that customers test all pigmented gelcoats before use under their own conditions of application to ensure the required surface finish is achieved.

Typical Properties

The following tables give typical properties of Crystic Gelcoat 65PA when tested in accordance with SB, BS, EN or BS EN ISO test methods.

I* Curing schedule – 24 hrs @ 20⁰C, 3 hrs @ 80⁰C
† Curing schedule – 24 hrs @ 20⁰C, 5 hrs @ 80⁰C, 3 hrs @ 120⁰C

Post-Curing

Satisfactory laminates for many applications can be made with Crystic Gelcoat 65PA by curing at workshop temperature (20⁰C). However, for optimum properties, laminates must be post-cured before being put into service. The moulding should be allowed to cure for 24 hours at 20⁰C, and then be oven-cured for 3 hours at 80⁰C.

Storage

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA should be stored in its original container and out of direct sunlight. It is recommended that the storage temperature should be less than 20⁰C where practical, but should not exceed 30⁰C. Ideally, containers should be opened only immediately prior to use.

Packaging

Crystic Gelcoat 65PA is supplied in 25kg and 225kg containers.Information courtesy: Satyen Scott Bader

The importance of proper mold cleaning procedures is a topic that is often overlooked in discussion and practice. All too often, mold cleaning is a rushed and not totally effective in removing all residues from the mold surface. In the case of semi-permanent mold releases, poor cleaning prior to application can result in major product failures, poor surface appearance, or lower production from each release preparation.

Beginning

Before testing a new mold release; converting from one release product to a different one; or returning a mold to production after polishing; it is critical to assure that the mold surface is clean. In addition, new molds surfaces should also be cleaned before application of sealer or release products. This includes new metal molds which may contain residues of cutting oils or plating chemicals. A clean mold surface is essential for all sealers and release products, allowing them to wet the mold surface evenly and completely when applied. For semi-permanent mold release products, a clean mold surface provides the site for sealers and releases to cross-link and bond to the mold surface. Without this clean surface, the semi-permanent release will be sacrificed during the first de-molding(s).

Mold Cleaning vs. Mold Stripping

To prepare a mold for an initial application of mold sealer or release, the mold should be stripped clean of all previously used releases, compounds, and polishes as well as any dust or dirt. By comparison, the goal of cleaning the mold while in process, is generally quicker and more superficial, since the intention here is to keep molding debris from building up and allowing production to run longer before the mold needs to be removed for refinished. Remember that bits of residue from molding are like magnets for more buildup. A quick cleaning while in process can really improve productivity.

A mold with buildup from          Mold with heavy styrene buildup in the non-skid areas
too much mold release.

It is easier to correctly and completely strip a mold if you know what is on the mold surface. With or without this information, you may find that more than one cleaner or stripper is needed to get the job done. Many people are surprised to learn that some residue, like polish, may be easier to remove with water than solvent. When in doubt about where to begin with cleaning, start by washing the mold with warm water containing two drop of liquid soap / liter. After this, rinse and dry the mold and move on to a quick flashing solvent cleaner like CX-500.
For molds with heavy buildup of paste wax, or styrene residue, specialty strippers may be required (Refer to Table 1).

Appearances Can Be Deceiving

Don’t simply assume that because a mold surface looks clean, that it is clean. Many polishes and cleaners may leave a mold looking clean and shiny, but they may have used waxes, oils, or silicone to fill tiny scratches and achieve this “clean look”.

One indication that a mold is really clean is to employ a simple “tape test”. To do this, you should use a good quality paper masking tape, applying several strips in various areas of the mold, and rubbing over each strip with equal pressure as you apply. Try to use the same tape for your all of your tape tests, as there can be considerable variability in various brands of tape. Once the tape strips are in place, pull them off of the mold surface. A clean mold should yield a feeling of consistent resistance in removal and you should hear some noise as the tape rips free from the mold surface. If the tape in one area releases easier, it indicates that additional cleaning is required. If all of the tape strips release with little resistance, then the
entire mold needs more cleaning.

In some cases even the tape test fails to uncover some surface residues, so another good double check is to drop a few beads of water or acetone on what you believe is a clean mold. If this beads up tightly like rain on a new umbrella or rain jacket, rather than immediately making a little pool, you will know that there are still some contaminants on the mold surface-keep cleaning.

* Water droplets that flatten out on the mold surface rather than forming a tight bead, indicate a cleaner surface.

Cleaning Rules

1) Always use clean cotton cloths for cleaning -polyesters can dissolve in cleaning solvents and leave behind residue. Non-gloss or textured molds can use stiff natural bristle brushes to work the cleaner over the mold surface if desired.
2) Saturate your cleaning cloth with cleaner and rub liberally over the mold surface in a circular motion. This is the time to use lots of product and some muscle.
3) Quick flashing solvent cleaners, like CX-500, should be wiped off before drying. Scrub the cleaner on with one cloth, and off with a second, clean dry cloth. Remember to turn or change cloths as needed. Wipe off while wet, or you will simply spread the dirt to a new area on the mold!
4) Mold strippers often require allowing the mold to sit for 15 minutes or more to permit the stripper to work. After scrubbing over the mold surface with stripper, covering the mold with Always use gloves! Covering molds can slow evaporation cotton cloths that have been saturated with stripper will minimize evaporation and speed the stripping process.
5) Always read and follow the safety instructions for all chemical products. Appropriate protective gloves and protective eyewear should always be used when handling any chemicals.

Always use gloves! Covering molds can slow evaporation.

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Website : www.elink.co.in

Product Information on Owens Corning’s Glass Fiber product

Introduction 

• A New Industry Standard
• Enhanced Corrosion Performance
• Higher Heat Resistance
• Improved Environmental Friendliness

Advantex^TM glass fiber combines the electrical and mechanical properties of traditional E-glasses with the acid corrosion resistance of E-CR glass.

Across-the-Board Properties.
Around – the – Globe Consistency

Advantex glass fiber is a new glass formulation which provides the properties and benefits customers have come to expect from Owens Corning.

An important new advantage of Advantex glass fiber is the common technology platform it provides which enables customers to confidently specify the same product anywhere in the world.

Customers currently using an E-glass product from Owens Corning can expect Advantex glass fiber to provide comparable property and processing characteristics. Advantex glass fiber also meets the defined requirements for an E-CR glass for acid corrosion resistance.

Nomenclature designations for Advantex products are structured in the same industry­ recognized formats as traditional Owens Corning E-glass and E-CR glass products.

Longer-term, the common platform will contribute to the improvement of world­ wide product availability during times when the limits of industry capacity and supply are challenged.

The Importance of Property Based Specifications:

Glass fiber composites are used in more than 40,000 end-use products. In each application, it is the composite’s properties in varied operating environments, and against a diverse set of criteria, which have determined its suitability in meeting and exceeding expectations.

Advantex glass fiber combines the electrical, mechanical and other characteristics of E-glass and E-CR glass, yet it is a new glass formulation. Its specification should be based on what it does and not just its composition.

Customers can specify Aduantex glass fiber with the confidence they are receiving today’s most advanced glass fiber technology.
That’s why Owens Corning is leading an industty-wide initiative to convert glass standards from a system that classifies glass by its composition to one that classifies glass by its properties.

How Advantex compares with traditional glass fibers:

The chart below shows a comparison of Advantex glass fiber physical properties with those of traditional E-glass and E-CR glass. Advantex exhibits a higher softening point than either E-or E-CR which may be an advantage for some applications.

Mechanical Property Data:

Even though the ultimate properties achieved in the laboratory with single filament measurements are not normally achieved in field applications, they provide a way to compare the properties of glass prior to field processing.

A table comparing the single filament tensile strength and modulus of Advantex glass fiber vis a vis E-glass and E-CR glass is shown in the table below.

Key Property Tests

In addition to its validation as a replacement for E-glass and E-CR glass, Advantex glass fiber technology continues to undergo extensive testing and further validation to define the full extent of its capabilities

Tensile Strength

The following chart shows a comparison of Advantex glass fibers with E- and E-CR glasses for typical composites containing Type 30 degree rovings.

Water Durability
One of the key features of E- and E-CR glasses is their durability in water. The chart below shows that Advantex glass fiber maintains the high standards of these types of glasses.

Mechanical Property Data

Acid Resistance
Advantex glass fiber has excellent resistance to acids. Comparisons with E-CR glass in both bulk glass and laminate data in acid environments are shown in the following charts.

Electrical Properties
Although Advantex glass fiber does not contain boron as do traditional E-glasses, it exhibits comparable electrical properties. The data below shows how the critical electric properties of volume resistivity and dielectric breakdown strength compare with currently available E-glass products.

Volume resistivity is a measure of the insulating properties of the glass

Breakdown strength is a measure of the voltage which can be withstood before arcing through the material occurs.

Summary
The preceding charts indicate that Advantex glass fiber exhibits properties which compare well with E-glass in mechanical and electrical properties. They also show comparable properties to E-CR glass in acid corrosion resistance in studies to date. As a result of this combination of E- and E-CR glass properties, Advantex glass fiber spans a much broaded band of applications than either E- and E-CR glass could do alone.

For more information
In addition to the technical information covered here, if you would like more information from Owens Corning about this product, please contact us a response@elink.co.in