Direct forming technology

Citation

(2003), "Direct forming technology", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 75 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2003.12775dab.004

Direct forming technology

Direct forming technology

Keywords: Plastics, Technology

Advanced technology polymer products group, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, reports that it has developed a pioneering direct forming process for the efficient high volume production of highly complex features and components. The technology, introduced for the latest addition to its Meldin family of high temperature polyimides, the Meldin 7000 series, claims precision, "as-molded" finished product, with tight tolerances, typically of ± 0.001 in. on OD/ID's, and importantly reduces and/or eliminates costly secondary machining operations (Plate 3).

Operational temperatures of + 315°C (600°F) for continuous operation, and + 482°C (900°F) for intermittent exposure, high temperature performance levels for which the Meldin 2000 series polyimides have been capable for over 20 years, are retained in the new 7000 series products.

Plate 3

Available grades include the unfilled 7001 and the 15 per cent graphite filled grade 7021. The 7001 unfilled grade is thought to be an excellent choice for high temperature structural applications, high purity semi- conductor applications, and electrical insulating welding component applications. The 7021 grade's self lubricating properties are stated to be ideal for aerospace applications where low weight dimensionally stable bearings and guideways are desirable.

The Saint-Gobain direct forming process, said to be unique to the sector, uses a precision molding method similar to powdered metallurgy, including high-pressure mold presses, automatic resin feeding systems, and computer controlled hydraulics.

Details available from: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Kontich NV. Tel: +32 3 458 28 28; E-mail: infoproducts.kontich@saint-gobain.com; Web site: plastics.saint-gobain.com