On display at the show will be TFP’s Optiveil nonwovens; these lightweight veils range from carbon, glass, polyester and aramid to high performance thermoplastics, and provide a variety of solutions for composites. Examples include adhesive carriers, a barrier to galvanic corrosion and resin flow media.
A key application in composites is enabling a high quality resin rich surface finish, particularly in industries such as aerospace, automotive and sporting goods. The quality of the fibre distribution in the veils makes them ideal for this, producing a smooth surface and ensuring even resin uptake and distribution. A layer of heavier weight Optimat nonwoven can also further reduce print through from the underlying reinforcement fabric if interleaved between the fabric layers close to the surface.
An added benefit to Optiveil surfacing veils is their multi-functionality; in addition to delivering a high quality surface finish they also impart functionality to the surface of a composite. This functionality is determined by the type of veil used and can range from corrosion resistance (glass and carbon) to abrasion resistance (aramid), electrical conductivity, static dissipation and EMI shielding (carbon and metal coated carbon).