Hexcel Corporation will demonstrate its latest developments for the aerospace industry at the Paris Air Show 2025 from June 16-22.

In response to the industry’s demand for increased output and faster production rates, several key Hexcel aerospace technologies are designed for automation and accelerated processing, offering alternatives to traditional autoclave methods.

HexPly M51 is a new, rapid-curing prepreg developed for hot-in/hot-out press curing or stamping of primary structural composite parts. In addition to shorter curing cycles, HexPly M51 also reduces the requirement for multiple sets of tooling and labour compared with traditional prepreg systems. Fully compatible with automated tape laying (ATL), automated fibre placement (AFP) and pick-and-place processes, HexPly M51 can help OEMs meet future production targets without compromising on material performances.

Hexcel liquid compression moulding (LCM) products can deliver superior mechanical performance in structural aerospace components produced with infusion, RTM or C-RTM processes without the investment in autoclaves. HF610F-2 and HF640F-2 are toughened LCM epoxy resins optimised for rapid curing that, in combination with HiTape high-performance carbon reinforcement and HiMax carbon non crimp fabrics, provide a cost-effective out of autoclave process route for primary aircraft structures. Specially developed for continuous mixing processes, these resins can be accurately monitored by in-line mixing equipment thanks to optimised viscosity at process temperatures.

Hexcel will also promote its TowPly towpreg range for filament winding applications. The combination of fast curing and high temperature resistance make the TowPly products using the M901 resin with intermediate modulus IM 24K and 12K HexTow carbon fibres a perfect solution for demanding filament winding applications in defence and space, urban air mobility (UAM) and civil aircraft markets.

HexTow continuous carbon fibre remains the preferred solution for advanced aerospace applications. Using HexTow IM9 24K manufacturers have an alternative solution to maximise efficiency in primary and secondary aerospace structures.

The new non-metallic Flex-Core HRH-302 mid-temperature product has also been added to the company’s honeycomb range and is well suited to the complex curvatures and increasing heat loads found in next-generation aircraft nacelles. Certification is currently underway with Hexcel expecting this material to be a key enabler in future UAM and engine programmes.

“Hexcel’s advanced material solutions enable stronger and lighter aircraft designs, delivering extended range, greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions,” says chairman and CEO Tom Gentile. “Our commitment to developing high-performance material solutions is shaping the future of flight.”

www.hexcel.com