Hexcel Launches 1K Reinforcement Fabric for Composite Applications

Hexcel Corporation, a leading manufacturer of advanced composite reinforcement materials, has announced the launch of its new HexForce® 1K woven reinforcement fabric. This lightweight fabric leverages the Hexcel proprietary HexTow® AS4C 1K carbon fiber, enabling the production of high-strength, low-weight composite materials.

 "The addition of 1K fabrics to our portfolio allows us to achieve low areal weights, down to 60 GSM, while maintaining the mechanical properties required for demanding composite applications," said Imad Atallah, Vice President – Product Management, Fibers, Reinforcements, and Matrix at Hexcel. "By vertically integrating the production of both the fiber and fabric, we are able to offer a solution that meets the performance and cost requirements of the growing demand for domestically sourced reinforcement materials."

The HexForce® 1K woven reinforcement fabrics are well suited for a variety of industrial applications, such as golf shafts, hockey sticks, and automotive components. The company is also targeting this material for applications in the aerospace and defense sectors, such as components for Advanced Air Mobility platforms and space applications, where the 1K fiber is also produced to the stringent aerospace qualification requirements.

"Our 1K reinforcement fabrics represent a significant advancement in our product capabilities," added Atallah. "By expanding our portfolio to include 1K fabric with our existing 3K, 6K, 12K, and 24K options, we are better equipped to support the diverse needs of our customers across a wide range of composite applications."

Hexcel is currently working with select customers to qualify the new 1K woven reinforcement fabric for a variety of applications and welcomes inquiries from interested parties.