Sheet molding compounds
By Staff | April 2008
IDI Composites International (Noblesville, Ind.) has introduced two new materials for sheet molding compounding (SMC) applications. The first, called X Series, is said to be resilient and impact resistant, designed for use in safety equipment as well as sporting goods, transportation and military applications. Impact strength for the products ranges from 40 to 60 ft-lb/in. Available with glass content ranging from 20 to 60 percent, the material’s flexural strength can range from 40,000 psi to 60,000 psi (257.8 MPa to 413.7 MPa) and its tensile strength can range from 25,000 psi to 35,000 psi (172.4 MPa to 241.3 MPa). For sports and military applications, the material reportedly offers protection with minimal cracking upon impact. Its flammability, smoke, and toxicity ratings meet requirements for use in aerospace and automotive markets. The second material, AV-206, is a corrosion-resistant, lightweight SMC designed for metals replacement in heavy truck underhood applications. It reportedly can withstand oils, solvents and salt sprays common in underhood environments. In a 1,000-hour oil-age test, says the company, the SMC maintained a tensile strength of 11,673 psi (80.48 MPa) and flexural strength of 25,274 psi (174.26 MPa).
