- Long fiber reinforced PA composites with significant enhanced surface appearance
- Fiber-free surfaces at lower processing temperatures
- Surface finish eliminates the need for secondary finishing
PlastiComp, Inc. has introduced a new range of high flow nylon long fiber reinforced composites with significant enhanced surface appearance. The composites simplify the injection moulding of high fiber content LFT components by more easily producing the smooth, fiber-free finish desired on external surfaces.
Easier moulding of high glass and carbon fiber content materials
The company developed its Velocity series of high flow nylon (polyamide) 6 and 66 LFT composites to facilitate easier and quicker moulding of high glass or carbon fiber content materials. Standard LFT materials with fiber loadings of 50% or above exhibit high viscosity characteristics which can make them problematic to mould, especially in thin wall sections.
-
- Surface finish of a standard 50% long glass fiber nylon 66 composite with fibers present on the part surface
-
- Surface finish of a Velocity 50% long glass fiber nylon 66 composite with its smooth, fiber-free surface finish that is better able to hold fine details. Both samples were injection molded using the same processing conditions.
Fiber-free surfaces at 17-22°C lower processing temperatures
With standard high fiber content materials, higher moulding temperatures are required to obtain a resin-rich surface, which results in slower cycle times and increased operating costs. When using the new long fiber grades, fiber-free surfaces are obtainable at 17-22°C (30-40°F) lower processing temperatures. A smooth to the touch, resin-rich surface free of fibers makes colours appear more vibrant and is capable of holding finer embossed details, such visual characteristics are important to establishing high product quality perceptions among consumers. The surface finish virtually eliminates the need for any type of secondary finishing operations and it is possible to achieve a near class-A surface finish with polished moulds, according to the company.
