Thanks to the new composite material HICOMPELT, it is now possible to create carbon and glass fiber parts with exceptionally high fiber content. Biberach-based Handtmann Elteka produces this unique material using the innovative T-RTM process. HICOMPELT offers a wide range of production opportunities that are particularly suited to the automobile and aircraft industries, and Handtmann Elteka also highlights key advantages when it comes to repair work and recycling.

Using low-viscosity cast polyamides PA 6C or PA 12C Lauramid as matrix materials, HICOMPELT delivers an exceptionally high fiber volume content of up to 65 per cent. Carbon fiber, glass fiber or a fiber mix is infused with the two thermoplastics and molded using a near-net-shape technique. Metal elements such as bolts and other parts can also be integrated during production. Handtmann Elteka is keen to emphasize the economic advantages of near-net-shape molding, as it minimizes both material and process costs. Components can be produced in cycle times of just three minutes.

The stability of the components is ensured through a new production process known as Thermoplastic Resin Transfer Molding (TRM). The matrix material, a PA 6C or PA 12C, is melted "just in time" and injected as a liquid into the preform to be molded into the component required. This thermoplastic infusion process delivers an exceptionally high fiber volume content of up to 65 per cent. What's more, virtually no further processing is required once the component is removed from the mold, while short cycle times make large-batch production possible using a single tool.