Long fibre reinforced thermoplastics (LFT) producer Epic Polymers (Kaiserslautern / Germany; www.epicpolymers.com) has introduced the “Strator” XC range, which, the company claims, achieves strength and stiffness levels of die cast metal alloys. The PA 6.6 and polyphthalamide (PPA)-based compounds are produced based on a carbon fibre technology that results in higher mechanical performance than the traditional carbon fibre reinforced compounds.

Fred Panhuizen, director of marketing and technology at Epic Polymers, said the materials match magnesium for stiffness and steel for tensile strength. “Compared to magnesium alloys, these materials have a 30% lower density and a strength level which is 40% higher. On top of this, these products have a far better creep performance at elevated temperatures and do not suffer from corrosion,” he added.

The company announced the planned commissioning of a 4 t/y LFT line at Kaiserslautern in the fourth quarter of 2012. Part of the output of the facility will be marketed under the “Strator” trade name – see Plasteurope.com of 12.09.2012.