Armacell is bringing a significant upgrade to the New Zealand market with the introduction of ArmaPET Struct GRX, a next-generation structural foam core that will progressively replace the current GR grade as existing stock sells through.
The GRX grade has been developed around four core improvements. A more optimised resin uptake reduces both the weight and cost of finished sandwich panels, while excellent thermal and dimensional stability means production processes become more consistent and repeatable. Long-term performance is strengthened through outstanding fatigue resistance, lowering the maintenance burden over a vessel's lifetime. The product is also manufactured from 100% recycled material, addressing the growing environmental and sustainability expectations of the marine composites industry.
At the heart of the GRX development is a finer, more homogenous cell structure that Armacell has refined in response to customer feedback and its own ongoing improvement programme. The reworked foam recipe delivers meaningful gains in shear properties, with testing confirming increases of up to 30% over the outgoing GR grade. Mechanical performance across the board is comparable to or better than the current product, and the improvements to resin uptake are notable: builders can expect to reduce resin usage by as much as 60%, a result that compounds the weight and cost benefits further.
Standard sheets are available in a size of 1008mm x 2440mm, with thickness ranging from 10mm through to 150mm depending on foam density. Non-stocked densities can be ordered on indent, with supply available on full pallet orders or full container loads.
For further information, contact Dean Pannett on 021 300 151 or pannett.d@xtra.co.nz.
