LFT

Thermal properties

Long fibre reinforced thermoplastics (LFT) are known for their high thermal stability. These materials can withstand extreme temperatures over long periods of time without losing their material performance. Such thermal resistance makes them ideal for applications that take place under extreme thermal conditions, such as in the automotive industry, where components are often exposed to large temperature fluctuations. The temperature range over which the properties of LFT remain stable is considerable, ensuring consistent and reliable performance in different climatic conditions. This adaptability distinguishes LFT as a robust material that is suitable for a variety of thermal challenges and is used primarily in industries with high thermal performance requirements.

Mechanical properties

The mechanical properties of long fibre-reinforced thermoplastics are also impressive. They offer strength at a very low weight, making them an excellent choice for load-bearing applications. This combination allows structural integrity to be achieved without significantly increasing weight, which is particularly important in aircraft construction or vehicle design. Another indispensable advantage is their low creep tendency, which means that these materials undergo minimal change under continuous load. This property makes LFT ideal for permanent applications where long-term dimensional stability is crucial. Their ability to withstand mechanical stress over time makes them a preferred material in technically demanding applications.

Chemical properties

Long fibre reinforced thermoplastics offer remarkable chemical resistance. They are particularly insensitive to lubricants, fuels and other chemical influences, making them a reliable choice for use in demanding chemical environments. They also demonstrate strong environmental resistance, particularly to corrosive influences such as salt water. These properties make LFT ideal for use in automotive and aerospace applications, where materials are often exposed to extreme environmental conditions. Their resistance to such influences enables long service life and consistent performance, which is crucial for durable industrial applications.

Automotive industry: In the automotive industry, long fibre-reinforced thermoplastics are key materials for the manufacture of structural components that must meet strict quality requirements. One major area of application is instrument panels, where the high impact strength and rigidity of LFTs ensure both safety and aesthetics. They are also used in door panels, which must withstand constant mechanical stress. These components benefit particularly from the integration of long fibres, which minimise weight and reduce creep, enabling them to retain their dimensional stability over long periods of time. Due to these properties and their good recyclability, LFTs are a cost-effective and sustainable choice for automotive manufacturers, who are increasingly placing value on materials that improve both environmental performance and performance.

Aircraft construction: LFTs are highly valued in aircraft construction due to their lightweight yet robust properties. The low weight of thermoplastics contributes significantly to increased efficiency by enabling weight savings that reduce fuel consumption and increase the range of aircraft. The resistance of LFTs to physical stress and their ability to maintain consistent performance under extreme temperature fluctuations make them ideal for use in critical aircraft components. This includes both structural components and internal components that must meet high requirements for thermal and mechanical stability. LFTs thus offer a solution for the aviation industry to improve the performance and sustainability of its fleets by relying on materials that are lightweight yet resilient.

Applications under extreme conditions: In addition, long fibre-reinforced thermoplastics are ideal for applications that take place under extreme conditions, whether at very high or low temperatures or in chemically demanding environments. Their chemical resistance to a wide range of substances, including salt water, fuels and lubricants, makes them indispensable in areas such as offshore industries or chemical plants, where materials are often exposed to corrosive and stressful conditions. Thanks to their thermal stability and chemical resistance, LFTs can be used in environments where consistent performance and resistance to environmental stress are crucial. These characteristics make long fibre reinforced thermoplastics a preferred choice for industrial applications that require high performance and reliability under the most demanding conditions.