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In this Edition March 2012 |
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Materials News
Films to fly high in composites use
U
K-based Victrex Polymer Solutions is partnering with US composites firm Umeco to release films made from its Aptive film. Vac-Pak is said to be the first PEEK film currently available as a release film for use in aerospace composite parts.Used in aerospace, military, marine and industrial composite processing applications, release films are utilised during composites manufacture, and placed between the lamination and a breather fabric. They function as a slip-sheet so the finished laminate can be easily removed from the fabric. Traditional release materials include Tedlar PVF film and various fluoropolymers but when compared to these materials, the firm says its Aptiv film is stronger at elevated temperatures allowing for faster processing.
The film is suited for higher temperature composite processing due to its inherent release properties, strength and toughness, purity and high temperature performance.
Available in 18 microns and 0.025 microns thicknesses, the release film has a high use temperature up to 315°C, which is compatible with typical aerospace composite requirements. In addition, the Aptiv-based release film is said to have chemical resistance and low moisture absorption and does not degrade when exposed to extreme conditions of the composite manufacturing process