The reinforced SAERfoam core material is designed for use in the vacuum Infusion or resin transfer moulding (RTM) processes and can be used with most commercially available resins, including polyester, epoxy, and vinyl ester.
By creating 'bridges' in both directions of the composite panel/sheet, SAERfoam can help optimise the mechanical properties of the structure to give the best ratio of performance to weight.
Three product grades are available:
- O Grade. With 45º reinforcement in two directions, SAERfoam O can replace existing core materials, such as PVC, PET, BALSA, SAN etc, and is ideal for many marine applications. It is already being used in boat decks and hulls, and in floors in other transportation applications. SAERfoam O has been certified by Bureau Veritas and testing by Germanischer Lloyd is scheduled for completion in 2013;
- X Grade is said to be ideal for highly orientated structures, such as bridge decks. As a result of its 3D glass structure, the high rigidity of SAERfoam provides excellent stiffness and very good resistance to buckling;
- I Grade. Whereas the X and O grades are designed for applications where shear resistance is important, I grade is engineered designed for use where compression is an important factor. This grade includes a 450 g CSM on both sides to help improve productivity.
SAERTEX reports that the main applications for SAERfoam currently include industrial vehicle bodies and civil engineering fittings.
The core material can be supplied with custom finishing, for instance, with grooves, or as a kit.
