Chem-Trend’s latest Chemlease® solutions speed up the European composites industry

Maisach, 17.09.2024 – Chem-Trend, a company of the Freudenberg Chemical Specialities Group and a global leader in the development of high-quality release agents, purging compounds, and other process chemicals and additives, presents yet another major innovation for the composites industry: a new generation of release agents – the Chemlease® PMR line. PMR stands for Premium Mold Release.

Manufactured in Europe, this semi-permanent release agent solution eliminates the need to apply a sealant during mold preparation, which considerably reduces the time required for this process and simplifies maintenance. Furthermore, it combines advanced technology, ease of application and operational efficiency. Laboratory and field testing have confirmed superior performance compared to traditional semi-permanent and sacrificial release agents used today.

The line is composed of three products, offering flexibility and an intuitive approach of choice for different slip levels, according to the complexity of the end products:

• Chemlease® PMR-LS EU – Low Slip / Minimum Lubricity: indicated for parts of less complexity. Inhibits pre-release and the appearance of gel coat “fisheyes” while allowing temporary adhesion of thin tapes.
• Chemlease® PMR-MS EU – Medium Slip / Medium Lubricity: suitable for most applications, ideal for demolding the largest number of parts.
• Chemlease® PMR-HS EU – High Slip / High Lubricity: suitable for difficult-to-mold parts with protruding edges, low draft angles and large areas of wear.

The fact that there is no need to use a sealer, in addition to reducing the total preparation time of the mold, also makes the process even more productive and efficient: the application in wipe on wipe off process is very easy and safe due to the formulation of the products. They dry out fast and without leaving traces. The release film is very resistant to even aggressive cleaners and ensures higher uptime with less need for cleaning withing production cycles. Case studies have shown a possible reduction of mold preparation time of up to 53%. Another positive aspect is gloss retention in the mold, which reduces build-up, decreasing rework and increasing productivity.

In addition, the three products are compatible with each other, allowing you to quickly change the slip level in the mold by simply applying a different grade of Chemlease® PMR. Similarly, they can be used on the same mold to adjust the slip level of specific areas as needed. These advantages result in simplicity and flexibility in molding composite parts.

“Our customers are always looking to optimize their production processes and it is our mission to keep the portfolio constantly updated and deliver the latest technology. The close collaboration with our R&D colleague in Maisach as well as our production team in Norderstedt has made it possible to offer this new range of products” comments Tomasz Krause, European Business Director for the Composites industry. “The new PMR generation does not transfer to the end product and therefore continues to ensure high part gloss, a quality prerequisite for the composite industry,” he concludes.

Primer Chemlease® MPP 712 EU: Ensuring the Right Gloss and Vitrification

Chem-Trend recommends the use of Chemlease® MPP 712 EU, a recently innovated primer that is not only suitable for FRP and advanced composites applications but also excels in vitrifying the mold surface. Ideal for mold preparation as a first step, this primer can be applied with ease using either wipe on / leave on or wipe on / wipe off techniques. It ensures a stable, glossy, and vitrified mold surface that resembles the clarity and smoothness of glass. With its ability to enhance the performance of semi-permanent release agents, Chemlease® MPP 712 EU is highly recommended as a complement for the PMR products, providing an extra layer of protection and a glass-like finish that elevates the quality of the final composite piece.

For more information, please reach out to the Chem-Trend Composites team of experts by completing the contact form. A free sample for your specific application may be available.