Processing: Duralite Composites

A Complete Duralite Composites Processing Guide

Light, Strong, Durable and Easy

Duralite is already slightly deformable at a temperature of 100ºC. By heating the sheet material to a temperature of 210 to 230ºC, it becomes fully deformable. It is important that Duralite is processed within 15 to a maximum of 30 seconds when activated. As a result, the fabric layers fuse together, making the structure more solid and increasing its original stiffness.

With a press Place the activated plate (210-230ºC) in the preheated press (175ºC) within seconds. Press the sheet material for a time of 20 seconds at a pressure of approximately 6 bar. During this time, the temperature is reduced to approximately 60ºC, which cools the material and keeps the applied shape. This way of forming is ideal for serial productions.

With a Vacutherm machine Perhaps the most commonly used way. Applicable to all thickness variants and compositions of Duralite . To prevent sticking, the plate to be formed must be enclosed between two layers of silicone foil. Sufficient pressure is essential to obtain a stable and homogeneous end result.

With an industrial hair dryer Post-processing is easily possible by locally reactivating the material using an industrial hair dryer.

Cutting Methods

Sawing with a band saw is possible though with a risk of rough edges.

Snipping and/or die cutting works for straight lines, is the standard method for panels and ideal for thin panels up to 0.75 mm thick.

Waterjet cutting is extremely precise, smooth, clean edges and the recommended way.

Punching is efficient for larger batches, not recommended for sheets over 1.5 mm thick.

Duralite composites are easy to weld and glue. We can provide you with tailored advice on this. When processing, take the necessary safety precautions into account. Protect eyes and hands.

View the Duralite range here.