OnForce™ LFT long-fiber thermoplastic compounds are optimized for surface finish, stiffness and impact strength These compounds offer higher performance and better aesthetics than similar products for use in applications involving metal replacement and structural elements.
Along with improved strength and toughness, OnForce LFT compounds also retain their performance and properties across a wide temperature range—from -20°C to 160°C. Further, LFT compounds offer improved creep and fatigue performance, better dimensional stability, very good chemical resistance, and exceptional surface finish when compared to highly filled short-fiber products as well as other long-fiber thermoplastics.
OnForce LFT compounds can be processed on standard injection molding machines, requiring no additional investment for processors. Long-fiber compounds are currently available in a range of base polymer/reinforcement combinations including PP, PA66, and TPU resins combined with glass and/or carbon fibers such as:
- 40% Long Glass Fiber PP
- 40% Long Glass Fiber Nylon (PA) 6/6
- 50% Long Glass Fiber Nylon (PA) 6/6
- 60% Long Glass Fiber Nylon (PA) 6/6
- 30% Long Carbon Fiber Nylon (PA) 6/6
PolyOne’s long fiber compounding expertise also makes it possible to offer these compounds with specialized fiber loading levels, customized stabilization and additive packages, and custom colors. In addition, several grades now in development are based on engineering resins such as PPA and PPS for higher heat applications.
The OnForce LFT platform of solutions offers highly efficient and economical material replacement for finished and semi-finished metal parts. A few examples include:
- Automotive powertrain, underhood, and body components—OnForce LFT compounds reduce weight and lower fuel consumption. In addition, former metal products consisting of several parts can often be consolidated into a single, net shape to reduce assembly costs.
- Structural industrial applications such as housing pumps, brackets and structural components—OnForce LFT compounds enable greater design freedom, lighter weight for lower energy requirements, and the ability to consolidate parts.