Fire protection materials for pultrusion, 3D printing

Solutions in the field of flame protection is the main focus of the Lehvoss Group’s (Hamburg, Germany) booth at JEC World 2024. The company offers high-quality, flame-retardant solutions as well as finished materials for various processing methods, including pultrusion, injection molding and 3D printing, that meet the demands of applications in the transport sector.

Among its offerings, Luvotrent products elevate fiber wetting, fillers and resin flow, thereby optimizing line speed and enhancing surface finish. These solutions facilitate fast, precise and reliable production, ensuring efficiency throughout the manufacturing process, according to the company. Their liquid and transparent state aids in viscosity adjustment and dosing, supporting the production of advanced materials with high flame resistance.

Additionally, Luvatine products offer a cost-effective solution with highly functional wetting and dispersing agents. These agents improve the dispersion of pigments and fillers in resin systems, ultimately contributing to the development of efficient and high-performance products.

On the Compounds business unit end, Lehvoss highlights Luvocom 3D, a resilient material for industrial 3D printing. It is based on many different thermoplastics like PC/ABS, PA, PET, PPS and PEEK, and is dedicated to respective 3D printing technologies like fused granulate fabrication (FGF) and fused filament fabrication (FFF). It is applicable for directly printed structural components as well as molds for injection molding and thermoforming of thermoplastic materials, or laminating fiber composite materials. 

In addition to high mechanical values, chemical and temperature resistance, the materials offer adjusted flame resistance; this is an important property when using plastics in public transport. For example, Luvocom 3F PEI 50236 GY, based on PEI, meets the EN45545-2 R1 HL3 certification for 3D-printed specimens that are only 2 mm thick. The test specimens made from Luvocom 3F PEI 50236 GY are said to achieve previously unattainable test values ​​and thus position it as a best-in-class material for railway applications. 

Luvocom 3D is being presented in an example of 3D-printed concrete formwork. With the help of 3D scanners, the Lehvoss Group says that parts can be reproduced more easily for restorations, even if the old forms are no longer present. After scanning, the forms can go straight into the printing process. The production of complex designs is also made easier by 3D printing. In addition, the overall use of materials is reduced.

Luvocom 3F is also highlighted in the development of 3D-printed laminate molds. Not only does the material enable high-strength end parts with low warpage, good machinability, recyclability and reduced tool weight compared to aluminum and steel, but it represents a high-quality and economical alternative to conventional moldmaking, which tends to be complex and time-consuming. Depending on the polymer base, Luvocom 3D can be used for low and high consolidation temperatures and a wide variety of resin systems. 

Moreover the Lehvoss Group has announced its recent membership in the European Pultrusion Technology Association (EPTA), effective Jan. 1, 2024. This strategic move reinforces the company’s dedication to contributing to the advancement of pultrusion technology within the industry.

Visit the Lehvoss Group at Booth C45 in Hall 6.