Key Technical Parameters of Fiberglass
Briefly introduce the core technical parameters of glass fiber.
1. Definition
As one of the most important reinforcing materials in composite materials, the performance of glass fiber is primarily determined by a series of key technical parameters. These parameters not only influence processing and product performance, but also directly determine the effectiveness of glass fiber applications in fields such as construction, transportation, electronics, power generation, and aerospace.
2. Core Technical Parameters
Technical Parameters | Common Range | Features
| Typical Applications
|
Fiber Diameter | 5 – 24 μm | Fibers with smaller diameters offer greater flexibility and interfacial bonding; fibers with larger diameters offer greater strength. | Fine fibers are suitable for electronic cloth and PCB; medium diameter fibers are suitable for pultrusion and winding processes; coarse fibers are suitable for large structural parts. |
Linear Density (Tex) | 50 – 4800 Tex | Indicates the thickness of the yarn. The higher the Tex value, the coarser the yarn. | Low Tex is suitable for electronic fabrics and high-density fabrics; high Tex is suitable for pultruded profiles and wound pipes. |
Moisture Content | ≤0.2% | Low moisture content improves resin wettability and prevents air bubbles. | Manufacturing various composite material. |
Sizing Content | 0.3% – 2.0% | Improves interfacial adhesion between glass fiber and resin. | Epoxy, polyester, vinyl, and thermoplastic systems |
Tensile Strength Strength | 2000 – 3500 MPa | Bearing capacity per unit weight exceeds that of steel | Construction, transportation, energy, aerospace |
Density | E-glass fiber approximately 2.6 g/cm³; high-silica fiber approximately 2.2 g/cm³ | Significant lightweighting advantage, more cost-effective than steel (7.8 g/cm³) | Construction, automobiles, ships, lightweight components |
Thermal Resistance | E-glass fiber ≤ 300°C; high-silica fiber ≥ 1000°C | Heat resistance varies significantly depending on fiber type. | Ordinary E-glass fiber is used in construction and transportation; high-silica fiber is used in fireproof fabrics and aerospace protection. |
3. Advantages
High strength-to-weight ratio: Lightweight yet excellent load-bearing performance.
Compatible with a variety of resin systems: epoxy, polyester, vinyl, thermoplastic, etc.
Corrosion resistance: Unaffected by most chemicals.
Excellent dimensional stability: Low coefficient of thermal expansion.
High Cost-Effectiveness: Lower cost compared to carbon fiber and aramid.
4. Applications
Construction and Building Materials: GRC components, roof panels, and pipes.
Transportation: Lightweight automotive components and ship decks.
Electronic and Electrical: PCB substrates (7628 and 1080 fabrics), insulation materials.
Energy: Wind turbine blades and storage tanks.
Protection: Fireproof fabrics and thermal insulation materials.
5. Selection Guide
Depending on the manufacturing process: Pultrusion, winding, and molding are recommended for different direct yarns with different Tex values.
Depending on the resin system: Select a compatible sizing.
Depending on the operating environment: Use high-silica fiber for high-temperature applications and alkali-free glass fiber for corrosion-resistant applications.
6. FAQ
Is a finer fiber diameter better?
Not necessarily. Fine fibers offer greater flexibility but are more expensive; coarse fibers are suitable for structural components. The choice should be based on the application.
Does a higher Tex value indicate better quality?
The Tex value indicates yarn thickness and does not represent quality. Selection should be based on process requirements.
What are the main differences between E-glass fiber and high-silica glass fiber?
E-glass fiber is low-cost and offers moderate heat resistance; high-silica glass fiber offers heat resistance up to 1000°C, making it suitable for extremely high-temperature environments.
7. Summary
The performance of glass fiber is highly dependent on its core technical parameters. Parameters such as fiber diameter, linear density, moisture content, and sizing content not only influence the processing process but also determine the final properties of the composite material. Correctly understanding and selecting appropriate glass fiber parameters is key to ensuring product quality and meeting end-use requirements.