Celstran® LFRT

Celstran long fiber reinforced thermoplastics (LFRT) are produced by pultrusion technology in which the long fibers are fully impregnated thus delivering optimal reinforcement to the plastic matrix. Unlike conventional short-fiber reinforced materials, the longer fibers present in molded parts of Celstran LFRT mechanically interact with each other to form an internal glass fiber “skeleton” that limits anisotropic shrinkage and greatly reduces warpage.

The LFRT technology is not just limited to glass. It may employ glass fibers, stainless steel, carbon, aramid or other reinforcing fibers to deliver the property balance required for a wide range of demanding uses. Stainless steel fibers can be used to make components conductive for static dissipation or EMI/RFI shielding, and carbon fiber or aramid fiber reinforcements can provide materials of even lower density than those reinforced with glass fibers. Hybrid fiber compositions are also available. Many different polymer feedstocks, from polypropylene and nylon to polyurethane, are used in this versatile technology.

Conventional plastics forming methods such as injection molding, blow molding, rotocasting and profile extrusion can be used with Celstran LFRT products where typical fiber lengths range about 10 mm. Products with longer fiber reinforcements suitable for extrusion compression molding are also available as Compel® LFRT ( fiber lengths about 25 mm).

The combination of mechanical properties, impact and creep resistance, and low warpage imparted by these LFRT products make them suitable candidates for metal replacement. Tool housings, luggage racks, fan shrouds, wheel and gears are but a few of the current uses of Celstran LFRT.