Continuous-fiber Extrusions Make Strong Thermoplastics

May 22, 2003
A new process combines the economies of extrusion with the strength of composites.

Continuous-fiber extrusions make strong thermoplastics

Ben Shobert
Vice President
Polygon Co.
Walkerton, Ind.
www.polygon-cft.com



CFT materials are stronger, tougher, and more durable than fiberglass-reinforced plastic pultrusions. Tool handles, for instance, are less likely to shatter upon impact, resist UV degradation, can be postformed into ergonomic shapes, and permit coextruded handle materials.

 

Reinforcing fibers run through the length of CFT profiles. Continuous axial fibers and high fiber volume combine to give better mechanical characteristics than possible with short or long-fiber-filled thermoplastic extrusions.

 

Thermoplastic-based CFT materials permit limited postforming of bends, twists, flanges, and other shapes.

 

As with other extrusions, CFTs are suited for surface effects such as in-line knurling and embossing.

Continuous-fiber thermoplastic (CFT) materials are a new family of engineered extruded composites that combine the cost advantages of extrusions with the high-strength, lightweight capabilities of composites. CFTs are viable alternatives to conventional metal extrusions and highly filled extruded plastics that have mechanical performance limitations.

The key feature, as the name implies, is that this new process produces parts with continuous reinforcing fibers running axially from end to end. Short and long-fiber-filled thermoplastic extrusions, on the other hand, have discontinuous reinforcing fibers. CFTs also have higher fiber volume. The result is better modulus values, impact strength, and overall durability than possible with other filled-plastic extrusions.

CFTs are manufactured through a hybridization of extrusion and pultrusion processes. Pultrusion techniques create a high-glass-content fiber architecture, and extrusion delivers molten thermoplastic to the reinforcing fibers.

Thermoplastics include polypropylene, polyurethane, PET, nylon 6, and PEEK, with other materials to be available in the near future. Reinforcing fibers are primarily glass or carbon fiber, but the process is suitable for aramids, metaramids, and other fibers.

Here's a closer look at some other features and capabilities:

Part size. The manufacturing process places few limits on part dimensions. Current production parts have a maximum envelope of about 12 in., but larger parts are certainly possible. Thickness is not an issue because the process does not involve exothermic thermosets that could cause thick profiles to crack. The reinforcing fiber determines minimum thickness, and the process places no practical limits on part length.

Mechanical properties. The composites can have a wide range of mechanical properties depending on the thermoplastic, the type and volume of reinforcing fiber, as well as whether or not the extruded profile is composed entirely of CFT.

Typical flexural modulus values range from 3 to 6 million psi. Transverse mechanical properties are typically 2.5 to 4 times better than equivalent fiberglass pultrusions. Overall system durability is fundamentally better because thermoplastic resins have superior elongation characteristics versus thermosets.

Targeted reinforcement. A proprietary process called inSERT technology strategically embeds high-strength CFT material within an extrusion. This two-stage process combines CFT with conventional overextrusion technology. A symmetrical or asymmetrical profile is extruded over a CFT insert, resulting in finished profiles with high-strength materials only where needed.

For example, CFTs can improve the mechanical properties and lower costs of a PVC patio-door frame. Adding four CFT reinforcements in the corners of the extruded profile increases stiffness by 30 to 45%, with the same wall thickness and minimal added cost. Higher stiffness also makes it possible to reduce the wall thickness and save on materials. For instance, using CFT inserts while maintaining the original stiffness reduces PVC volume by more than 35%.

Dual and triextrusion. CFT offers the ability to selectively place material over, around, or in a portion of the extruded profile. As an example, a coextruded TPE strip can create a handgrip on a tool without secondary assembly. Selectively extruded materials can also increase bond-line integrity, provide an electrically conductive path, or perform many other functions within the CFT profile.

Surface effects. As with many extruded materials, CFT permits various surface effects in the host material. In-line knurling, embossing, logo imprinting, or other surface effects can be added at high speeds.

Postforming capabilities. Because CFT materials are based on thermoplastic resins, limited postforming is possible. The high fiber volume of CFT material, however, means postforming capabilities are more limited than with filled thermoplastic. Because the CFT profiles contain continuous axial fibers, postforming geometries must not overstress individual fibers.

For more information:
A CFT design guide introducing the material concept and product capabilities is available by e-mailing Polygon at [email protected].

CFT polypropylene compositeUnidirectional construction, roving only

Tensile properties (ASTM D3039)Tensile modulus 38 Gpa 5.5 X 106 psi Tensile strength 690 Mpa 100 X 103 psi Elongation 2.2% - Flexural properties (ASTM D790)Flexural modulus 32 Gpa 4.65 X 106 psi Flexural strength 517 Mpa 75 X 103 psi Compressive properties (ASTM D695)Compression strength 170 Mpa 24.5 X 103 psi Other propertiesUnnotched Charpy impact 445kJ/m2 - HDT (1.82 Mpa) 159°C 318°F Density 1.68g/cm3 - Mechanical properties of CFTs are generally superior to fiber-filled extrusions and fiberglass pultrusions.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!