Aramid Fiber Reinforcements
Hexcel manufactures aramid fiber reinforcements for use in aerospace applications as well as marine, tooling and recreational products where high strength, low weight and impact resistance are essential.
Aramid fibers are 43% lighter than glass fiber, with a density of 1.44 g/cc compared to 2.5 g/cc for glass fiber. They are twice as strong as E-glass, ten times as strong as aluminum and approach the strength of high strength carbon on a specific tensile strength basis.
Aramids display excellent dimensional stability with a slightly negative coefficient of thermal expansion (-2.4 x 10-6/°C). They are resistant to chemicals with the exception of a few strong acids and alkalis.
Aramids have excellent stability over a wide range of temperatures for prolonged periods. They show essentially no embrittlement or strength loss at temperatures as low as -320°F (-196°C). Aramids do not melt or support combustion but will start to carbonize as approximately 800°F (427°C).
