Hexcel introduces mid-temp Flex-Core HRH-302 honeycomb core | CompositesWorld

Bismaleimide (BMI) option to serve complex curvatures and thermal management needs of military, commercial and UAM aircraft.

Flex-Core HRH-302, on display at CAMX 2024. Source | Hexcel Corp.

Hexcel Corp. (Stamford, Conn., U.S.) has launched its nonmetallic Flex-Core HRH-302 mid-temperature honeycomb core, providing a bismaleimide (BMI) solution for the aerospace industry’s evolving thermal management needs.

The FlexCore HRH-302 is designed to sustain service temperatures up to 450°F, bridging the gap between traditional phenolic-based materials and high-cost polyamide solutions. Leveraging the expertise Hexcel has in thermoplastic resins, the product offers improved thermal capabilities while maintaining similar mechanical properties to existing honeycomb materials.

“The flexibility and thermal performance of HRH-302 make it ideally suited for the complex curvatures and increasing heat loads found in next-generation aircraft nacelles” says Bobby Rowe, VP of product management, core and engineered products at Hexcel. “We’re excited to work closely with our customers to demonstrate the benefits of this new material on critical military and commercial programs.”

Flex-Core HRH-302 is currently undergoing testing and certification with aerospace OEMs. The product is expected to be a key enabler for future engine designs, as well as emerging applications in the urban air mobility market, where lightweight, heat-managing materials are in high demand.

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