Germany-based Henkel has secured a deal from Textron Aviation to provide its new surfacing film to help protect aircraft composite components against lightning strikes.
To be used in the manufacture of various Textron turboprop and business jets, Henkel’s new Loctite EA 9845 LC Aero surfacing film is a thin epoxy that is applied to an aircraft's exterior to protect the composites.
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Also used to fill voids and pin holes, the adhesive film produces a smooth surface that can be easily painted.
It is also 30% lighter than other surfacing film and resistant to ultraviolet (UV) waves and paint strippers, which reduces finishing costs and the time required for masking.
Henkel corporate vice-president Charles Evans said: “At Henkel, we are most grateful for the opportunity to extend our relationship with Textron Aviation through the development of this new surfacing film.
“It's the latest advanced technology to emerge from our research and development efforts, allowing us to help specific industries meet the challenges they face as they innovate with new materials and processes.
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By GlobalData“We expect our one-step film soon to become the standard for composite surface finishing.”
The company also noted that currently aircraft manufacturers are using a two-step process to keep their planes safe from lightning strikes.
However, Henkel’s new Loctite EA 9845 LC Aero removes the two-step process, reduces production time and eliminates waste from scrap mesh.
