Hexcel Launches Fast-Curing HexPly® M77HF Prepreg For Low-Pressure Processing
STAMFORD, Conn. -- Hexcel is responding to the ongoing need to drive down the cost of manufacturing advanced composite Industrial parts by launching HexPly® M77HF epoxy prepreg. This high-flow resin system was developed for a quick three-minute cure cycle using low pressure processing techniques such as cello-wrapping, simple presses, bladder molding and even vacuum-only pressure. Compared to standard epoxy prepregs cure cycles can be reduced by up to 90%.
HexPly® M77HF is an expansion of Hexcel’s range of fast reactivity, low tack, high toughness and long out-life resins, providing a prepreg that is specifically suited for processing parameters that require additional resin flow for surface quality, compaction or low voids. HexPly® M77HF also has good resin transparency, provides excellent surface quality (without pinholes), and can be supplied with black pigmented resin.
The typical cure cycle in a press is three minutes at 300°F (149°C) with a minimum of 85 psi (6 bar). If Autoclave curing is preferred the recommended cycle is a ramp up of 2-5°F per minute to 300°F (149°C) with a minimum 85 psi (6 bar). Depending on the tooling design and material a dwell may be required.
Other benefits of HexPly® M77HF are a long out-life at room temperature for a fast-curing system of up to 30 days when stored in a sealed bag, or 10 days once the bag has been opened. The prepreg is low tack, which eases processing and handling, and has a high Tg of 130°C.
Typical applications for HexPly® M77HF are sports equipment such as golf shafts, bicycle components, hockey sticks, arrow shafts and fishing rods. Automotive parts are also targeted, including racing car components and aftermarket add-ons. Many other industrial components, including prosthetics and braces, can also benefit from this new product.
***
Hexcel Corporation is a leading advanced composites company. It develops, manufactures and markets lightweight, high-performance structural materials including carbon fibers, specialty reinforcements, prepregs and other fiber-reinforced matrix materials, honeycomb, adhesives, engineered core and composite structures for use in commercial aerospace, space and defense and industrial applications.
Contact Information
Amelia Hawkes
+1 (801) 508-8262
Amelia.hawkes@hexcel.com
