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Coaticom is an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D accredited supplier.
All around the world, the advantages of thermoplastic composites are being recognized and the use of thermoplastic composites is increasing each year. Here is some helpful information to learn more about the thermoplastic process.
We at COATICOM are here for you and would be happy to answer any questions you have.
What are the advantages of Powdered Polymers?
During the impregnation process, high viscosity can cause fiber distortion and poor fiber wetting. Dry powder coating overcomes these challenges as the fibers or textiles are not stressed in a viscous melt. The powder particles penetrate the reinforcing textile evenly and are later heated to melt the polymer and achieve a semi-impregnated semi-finished product- the Prepreg. The dry powder coating enables a shorter thermal history of the polymer, no solvents or VOC, and a variety of polymer- reinforcement combinations.
What are Thermoplastic Composites
Thermoplastic composites usually consist of a type of reinforced fabric and a thermoplastic bonding resin (matrix). The fabric can be carbon, glass, aramid, or many other options. The bonding matrix can be any type of thermoplastic polymer, from low to high melt temperature, which is chosen according to the special requirements of the customer.
what is the difference between a Thermoplastic composites and a Thermoset composites?
Thermoplastics are polymers that melt upon heating and can be remelted and reformed regaining their solid shape upon cooling. Thermosets however form by going through an irreversible chemical reaction, known as curing. Once cured, the thermoset composites cannot be reformed. This makes the Thermoplastic part recyclable and re-processable and therefore it is considered environmentally friendly Vs. the Thermosets. The Thermoplastic process is fast and efficient, suitable for high volume manufacturing. The prepreg has no shelf-life limitation and can be stored at room temperature. The Thermoplastics parts offer many other advantages.
What are the advantages of the Powdered Electrostatic impregnation?
Coaticom produces Thermoplastic prepreg based on electrostatic flow and fine powder.
The powdered electrostatic coating process is based on the conductive properties of carbon fabric and the chargeable, nonconductive properties of the powdered polymers.
The technology allows a controlled coating level of 5-150% by weight, uniform distribution, short thermal history, low-stress history, and is considered environmentally friendly since no solvents are used.
The electrostatic coating process can perform one or two-sided coating, with different polymers on each side, and a selective coating area. It can achieve accurate and low tolerance coating and can be adapted for a wide range of TP prepregs per your requirements.
How long is the manufacturing cycle time of the thermoplastic part?
The cycle time of the Thermoplastic composites part depends on the part’s material type, size, geometry, and thickness. In most cases, the average cycle time will be a few minutes.
Can the Thermoplastic part be painted?
Yes, the Thermoplastic parts can be painted. The color can be added during the prepregging process and receive colored prepreg, or to the final part during or after the Thermoforming process. The decision depends on the polymer type, final part & customer’s needs. Call us to check how we can add color to your product.
Can Thermoplastic composites be trimmed?
Yes, the Thermoplastic parts can be trimmed. The trimming techniques will differ based on the fabric type, polymer type, part thickness, and trim radius.
Can Thermoplastic composites be bonded to other parts?
Yes, it is possible to get strong bonding of thermoplastic composites with available bonding agents. Some of the thermoplastic parts are easier and cheaper to bond than others, but all have available bonding solutions. The bonding is determined by the thermoplastic material.
Can I convert my existing part design into a thermoplastic composites part?
Coaticom’s team will work with you to understand your project needs & objectives, in order to convert your existing part to thermoplastics one.
What quality control process do you have in place?
Coaticom is an ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D accredited supplier. We ensure overall control, visibility, traceability, and accountability throughout the whole production process, from material selection to final part finishing.
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