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Composites

TenCate to supply composite materials to Kestrel Aircraft

The new all composite turboprop Kestrel K-350 will utilise the latest TenCate TC275-1 epoxy prepreg system for superior hot/wet strength retention.

29th December 2014

Innovation in Textiles
 |  Morgan Hill, CA

Transport/​Aerospace

TenCate Advanced Composites North America, a leading composite materials company for space and aerospace applications, has signed a long term composite materials supply agreement with Kestrel Aircraft, headquartered in Superior, WI.

The new all composite turboprop Kestrel K-350 will utilise the latest TenCate TC275-1 epoxy prepreg system. The system is said to feature superior hot/wet strength retention, the ability to cure at either 275°F or 350°F, and can be processed with a free standing post cure for higher temperature performance, the manufacturer reports.

“TenCate is pleased to be the composite supplier to Kestrel Aircraft. This long term supply agreement represents the continuation of a long term successful relationship we have had with the Kestrel management team. We look forward to first flight and certification,” commented Joe Morris, President TenCate Advanced Composites North America.

High strength

The Kestrel K-350 represents an all-composite single-engine, turboprop aircraft that will carry up to eight people at high speed over long distances to places where jets can’t go.

The Kestrel's sleek, aerodynamic lines and large pressurised cabin are the direct result of advanced composite construction. Composites, with their high strength and design versatility, enable a more elegant, innovative airframe design and more spacious, comfortable interior, the company reports.

“I have worked closely with TenCate in past years and have been impressed with their strong customer focus and strategic growth over the past two decades. We are pleased to entrust them with supplying consistently high quality prepreg materials for the K-350,” said Alan Klapmeier, CEO, Kestrel Aircraft.

TenCate Advanced Composites

TenCate Advanced Composites is a leader in the development and production of thermoplastic and thermoset prepreg composites.

Its product portfolio is incorporated in automotive products, aerospace applications, medical equipment and numerous other industrial applications. TenCate Advanced Composites has production facilities and operations in Europe and North America and distributors in Asia.

Kestrel Aircraft

Kestrel Aircraft is a new aviation company led by aviation entrepreneur Alan Klapmeier, renowned for introducing new standards of safety and ease of operation to general aviation.

The Kestrel airplane will have six to eight seats, all composite, single-engine turboprop, boasting a broad performance envelope and the newest technologies available in personal and business aircraft. The main focus of engineers and support staff working at Kestrel, headquartered in Superior, WI, is on aircraft design and certification.

www.tencateadvancedcomposites.com

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