Ultraconductive
What are the UltraConductive products used for?
The UltraConductive product line is designed for lightning strike protection on composite surfaces. Each format may be used to completely replace the metal mesh/foils and surfacers that are the current industry standard. They may also be used for EMI shielding applications on composites.
What is the difference between the UltraConductive 4011/4010 and UltraConductive 4041 formats?
The UltraConductive 4011/4010 is the two-component spray version; the 4011 component is the part A or “base” component, while the 4010 is the part B or “catalyst” component. The UltraConductive 4041 is a ready-to-apply film format. The two formats may also be used in tandem with one another on a single part.
What aircraft strike zones have the UltraConductive products been tested for?
Both formats have consistently passed direct effects lightning strike testing for zones 1A and 2A. For additional information or data, please contact techsupport-na@socomore.com.
Can the UltraConductive products be applied to metal substrates?
No. The UltraConductive product line is designed for composites and will have poor adhesion to metal substrates.
Can the UltraConductive products be applied to other substrates, such as plastic?
Yes. The UltraConductive products have been successfully applied post-processing to thermoplastics. The thermoplastic must be able to withstand the minimum cure temperature of the UltraConductive, which is 121°C (250°F) for two hours.
What is the maximum operating temperature of the UltraConductive 4011/4010 and 4041?
Both formats have a maximum operating temperature of 94°C (201°F), which is the glass transition temperature. Both products can sustain higher temperatures based on the chemistry, but the lightning strike performance may be impaired above 94°C (201°F).
What are the curing requirements?
The absolute minimum cure requirement is 121°C (250°F) for two hours with an autoclave pressure of 3-7 bar (40-100 psi). For out-of-autoclave cure schedules, follow the prepreg manufacturer recommendations for ramp, soak, and cure. The composite has to be able to withstand a soak temperature between 121-177°C (250-350°F) to ensure full cure of the UltraConductive.
Can I cure the UltraConductive at temperatures below 121°C (250°F)?
No. The UltraConductive Coating or Film will not achieve full cure, sintering, or adequate adhesion when cured below 121°C (250°F). Performance will be impaired.
Can I apply a coating system over the UltraConductive material?
Yes. The Aeroglaze epoxy primers/topcoat systems have excellent adhesion directly to the UltraConductive coating following basic surface preparation (refer to the appropriate UltraConductive TDS). Adhesion testing is recommended for other manufacturers’ coatings.
What is the coverage rate of the UltraConductive 4011/4010 Coating?
At 140 gsm coating weight and assuming 50% overspray, the UltraConductive 4011/4010 Coating has a coverage rate of 2.2 m2/L (90.8 ft2/gal).