High Strength, Lightweight Thermoset Composite Threaded Rods, Threaded Nuts, Washers, and Tubing
Thermoset composites play an important role in machine design for applications where metals and thermoplastics may be unsuitable for an application. Röchling Industrial manufactures Durostone® threaded rods, threaded nuts, and washers, as well as UTR round and square tubing from advanced thermoset composite materials.
Thermoplastics can be limited by their low strength and modulus, generally poor creep resistance, and poor dimensional stability due to their high rates of thermal expansion. Metals are heavy and many are prone to rust and corrosion when exposed to salt, certain acids, and other corrosive chemicals. Although metals have high strength and high modulus, they are typically not suitable for applications where electrical or thermal insulation is required.
Advantages of Thermoset Composites
Thermoset composites exhibit strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability similar to some metals as well as the light weight, chemical resistance, and electrical and thermal insulating properties associated with engineering thermoplastics.
Figures 1, 2, and 3 show the tensile strengths, thermal expansion rates, and specific gravities for acetal hompolymer, aluminum 6061-T6, and Durostone® EPR S1 glass/epoxy composite.
Figure 1 – Tensile Strength of Acetal, Aluminum 6061-T6, and Durostone® EPR S1 Glass/Epoxy Composite
Figure 2 – CTE of Acetal, Aluminum 6061-T6, and Durostone® EPR S1 Glass/Epoxy Composite
Figure 3 – Specific Gravity of Acetal, Aluminum 6061-T6, and Durostone® EPR S1 Glass/Epoxy Composite
In this comparison, the composite material can be described as having mechanical strength and dimensional stability comparable to aluminum while still having the light weight advantage of plastic.
Advantages of Composite Threaded Components
Thermoset composite threaded rods and nuts, washers, and tubing offer a number of unique advantages compared with similar parts made from either metals or engineering thermoplastics as follows.
- Chemical and corrosion resistance that make them suitable for use in marine and chemical plant applications
- Non-metallic for use in magnetic fields common in power generation and scientific applications
- Electrical insulating properties including arc and track resistance for use in electrical applications
- Low thermal conductivity, which is important for many devices that operate at cryogenic temperatures
- Stronger and stiffer than thermoplastics
- Outstanding dimensional stability including lower thermal expansion rates and superior creep resistance compared with thermoplastics
- Outstanding flammability properties
- Machinability and ease of fabrication
- Lighter weight than metals
For more information about Röchling Industrial’s composite materials or specific application questions Ask a Plastics Expert, or call 1-800-553-0335.
About the author
Dr. Keith Hechtel is Senior Director of Business Development for Curbell Plastics, Inc., based in Orchard Park, NY. Dr. Hechtel has a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, a Master of Science degree in Industrial Technology, a Doctor of Business Administration degree, and over 30 years of plastics industry experience.
Much of his work involves helping companies to identify plastic materials that can be used to replace metal components in order to achieve quality improvements and cost savings. Dr. Hechtel is a recognized speaker on plastic materials and plastic part design. He has conducted numerous presentations for engineers, designers, and fabricators in both industrial and academic settings. Contact Keith.
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