The composite reinforcement expert Chomarat Group (Group) and Groupe Beneteau have developed G-Flow 980L. The structural flow medium contains 100% glass fiber and can be used to produce boats through the resin infusion process.
Chomarat Product Manager Claude Chabal explained: "The challenge is to develop a fabric with high permeability in all directions that can be integrated into the structure of large composite parts without compromising its mechanical properties while reducing perfusion The cost of the process. Thanks to our collaborative work and the long-term partnership with the Groupe Beneteau team, we have achieved success. "
What happens in the end? Innovative design brings unprecedented flow performance and excellent mechanical performance.
Towards greener composite materials
In addition to reducing weight, the use of G-Flow reinforcement materials in the resin injection process can also reduce consumables and waste, thereby reducing the impact on health and the environment. Compared with previous solutions, consumables used in the resin supply network Reduced by 50%, and reduced 7% resin consumption, thereby shortening the cycle and saving labor and material costs. In addition, G-Flow can use the same mechanical properties of resin injection process to replace any flow medium in large-scale parts, thereby providing two products in one. Damien Barre, Groupe Beneteau's head of composite research and development, added: "The G-Flow 980L meets all of our expectations: isotropic permeability, mechanical properties and overall cost savings."
Increase the use of the perfusion process
With this new solution, Chomarat helps and reduces the cost of large composite parts using a resin infusion process, thereby helping to develop infusion products that meet these specifications. Vinmar Cholvy, Marine Marketing Manager at Chomarat, said: "The mold closure, especially the injection process, can better ensure part consistency and repeatability and provide better working conditions." Since 2018, Chomarat has obtained a patented solution , G-Flow has been used in more than 500 ships (15 types), and can be applied to different parts and use it in a new range. He concluded: "We hope to win this award because it represents our professional recognition of innovation!"
Chomarat is a finalist in the JEC Innovation Award in the Maritime Transport and Shipbuilding category.