HexMC® Molding Composite

Our product

HexMC® is a high performance molding material, suitable for the production of complex shaped parts and specifically designed for compression molding.

With long carbon fibers (50mm) and a low resin content, HexMC® provides better mechanical properties than any other short or long fiber molding compound.

HexMC® molding materials enable composite parts to be manufactured for:

  • Applications where complex 3-D shapes limit the use of typical fiber reinforced matrices/reinforced laminated composites;
  • Use for applications where previously metal was the only solution;
  • Parts with abrupt change of cross-sectional thickness;
  • Applications where co-curing of elements is desired, such as metal inserts or mixing with other materials and more.
  • Use with automated production process similar to SMC molding;
  • Production of parts with zero material waste.
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HexMC® Aerospace Grade

As new generation commercial aircraft and jet engines increasingly use carbon fiber composites for large flight critical structures, a number of smaller complex geometry parts are required to connect these structures together. In the past these connector parts have been machined, cast or forged from aluminum, titanium or steel. However, Aluminum parts are sensitive to fatigue and corrosion and require frequent inspection and maintenance. Steel is heavy and sensitive to corrosion while Titanium adds significant weight and cost. 

HexMC® enables complex shapes to be manufactured in cost-effective series production while providing weight savings that are comparable to those traditionally achieved with aerospace carbon/epoxy prepregs. The resulting weight-savings reduce fuel consumption and increase aircraft payload.

HexMC®-i Industrial Grade

For industrial applications the HexMC®-i epoxy resin system cures in a short cycle – from 2 minutes at 150°C depending on part thickness. Complex shapes can be achieved and inserts can be integrated during the molding process. HexMC®-i is particularly beneficial for sporting goods, automotive and marine applications, as well as a wide range of industrial components.

For all industrial and non-aerospace applications please contact:

Talk to Our Team

Get expert guidance on the best HexMC® molding material for certified aerospace or industrial use.

Engineering Starts Here

Technical Resources

Find all the documentation you need to evaluate, specify, and implement Hexcel carbon fiber composites.

Molding Compound

Products Description Downloads
HexMC M77 User Guide
C/2000/M77-RA Carbon Epoxy Molding Compound Global Version

Additional Resources

FAQs

Answers That Power Precision

Get clarity on your most pressing questions about prepregs and their applications.

A composite material made from combining high performance reinforcement fibers or fabrics with a thermoset or thermoplastic resin matrix. When cured under high temperature and pressure, exceptional structural properties are achieved.

Prepregs are used for a wide range of applications requiring high strength and stiffness combined with low weight. The use of prepreg was pioneered by the aerospace industry, closely followed by developments for sports goods, performance boats, F1 and Indy cars. Recent innovations have included train bogies and wind turbine blades.

Hexcel prepregs are based on four main matrix types: epoxy, phenolic, bismaleimide and cyanate ester. Reinforcements include carbon, glass, aramid and hybrid fibers in both woven and unidirectional form.

Selection is governed by the achievable cure temperature and the maximum service temperature of the component. Consult the prepreg selector guide and Hexcel’s Technical Support department for advice on prepreg selection.

Please note that Hexcel’s lowest temperature curing prepregs are currently HexPly® M34 and HexPly® M79 for industrial applications.

Please contact Customer Service.

Please contact your local Customer Service center. It would help us to process your order more quickly if you supplied the following information:

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