High Performance Honeycomb

PlastiCell of France announced it has developed an innovative process for the production of lightweight thermoplastic honeycomb structures using Victrex APTIV™ film. The unique design of PlastiCell’s honeycomb provides an ideal solution for aerospace and other industries seeking to reduce weight while maintaining high levels of strength and stiffness. APTIV thermoplastic honeycomb can be thermoformed into shape in combination with fibre reinforced VICTREX® PEEK™ polymer composite skins to create unique structural parts without the use of adhesives. Consisting only of PEEK polymer, any scrap and end-of-life parts can be fully recycled, providing further advantages over traditional phenolic/aramid fiber and aluminium based honeycombs.

The thermoplastic film used for the honeycomb and for the surface skins must fulfill the aircraft industry standards for flame performance, smoke and toxicity, as well as offering mechanical performance and low weight.

There is no size constraint, part size limitation is dictated by the hydraulic press platen size. Flat and curved parts can be made using this process and the unique flexibility of the thermoplastic honeycomb even allows it to be formed into cylindrical shapes.

For more information, contact Victrex USA, Inc., 300 Conshohocken State Road, Suite 120, West Conshohocken, PA 19428, 800-VICTREX, Fax: 484-342-6002, Web: www.victrex.com.