Maxcore's fibre-engineered sandwich technology

French-based Sicomin was showing a new method of dry fibre insertion into sandwich core sheets. Branded as Maxcore, this process creates a series of cross braces, adding a great deal of extra strength to supplement the existing foam core.

“This type of process is ideal for the infusion manufacturing of large composite panels and parts for the marine industry,” said Sicomin’s president Philippe Marcoivich. “Dry fibres are inserted into the foam from several directions and provide 100% of the mechanical properties of the infused core. This process is precise and consistent and results in a 70% fibre content by weight of infused glass.”

Maxcore, the logo cleverly representing the technique, had several different types of panel on display, including a fire retardant 50mm 3AC PET core panel infused with Sicomin’s SR1125 epoxy.

“The dry fibre insertion process maximises the panel’s properties, especially in large thickness formats,” Marcovich explained. “The technique can be applied with a number of materials, including aramid, carbon, thermoplastic and glass fibres. It is also compatible with epoxy, polyester and vinylester resins, and is a cost-effective technology with unlimited options for panel dimensions.”

Maxcore is currently experimenting with moulding tightly curved sections for fast patrol vessels, with very positive results.