Surface modelled after shark skin

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The low viscosity of the PU system enables rapid entry into the tool, and due to the snap cure, the start and duration of the hardening process can be adjusted fairly accurately in terms of time. The process releases a relatively low amount of heat with a maximum reaction temperature of well below 100°C. Nevertheless, the material is thoroughly suitable for surface coating in KTL systems with a glass transition temperature (TG) of more than 200°C. The concept is significantly more efficient for certain applications in large-scale productions and at the same time sturdier than classic matrix materials. Due to low tool temperatures of less than 100°C and the low internal tool pressures, the system requires a relatively small investment, making it practically predestined for additional application in top layers on sandwich components, since it does not damage the foam core. As only low clamping forces are required for the tool, ceramic tools can be used.

Differently than for most processes typical on the market, more complex, large-volume three-dimensional structural components can also be directly produced in the desired geometry.

Decorative and functional surfaces in combination with sandwich lightweight construction

As part of the Street Shark project, Frimo managed, with the help of its cooperation partners, to produce a bionic vehicle surface that reduces drag. As the name suggests, the skin of a shark served as inspiration to improve the aerodynamics of a vehicle - an area in which car manufacturers in particular are constantly looking for improvements. The shark is a fast and skilful swimmer. The tooth-shaped scales on its skin significantly reduce drag. We were also able to prove this in this project using wind tunnel tests. While the first shark skin textures were attached to substrates using special films, it is now possible to apply delicate surfaces directly onto lightweight construction component surfaces by use of polyurethane matrix materials with the corresponding tool and systems technologies. In doing so, the surface structure was optimized in each new version by scaling, and tested and approved in wind tunnel tests. Ever since its initial presentation, numerous new trials and enhancements have been implemented with interested parties from a wide range of industries, for instance the wind power, sport and leisure industries, who are currently at the prototype and pre-production stage.

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