Fibre Types

Donaghys' marine braid range consists of many fibre types.

UHMwPE (Ultra high molecular weight Polyethylene) is commonly sold under the name Spectra®, also known as HMPE (High Modulus Polyethylene). UHMwPE is very light weight and extremely strong. The melting point for UHMwPE is 150°C but starts to lose strength at 65°C.

Aramid refers to Kevlar®, Technora® and Twaron®. Aramid fibres have a very high heat resistance of up to 500°C. Aramid fibres have very low stretch and a low creep.

LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer) refers to Vectran®. Vectran® breaks down at 330°C with a loss of strength above 220°C. Vectran® fibres have very low stretch and low creep.

Zylon (PBO) has a tensile strength which is approximately 1.6 times that of Aramid fibres. Like Kevlar®, Zylon® is used in a number of applications that require very high strength with excellent thermal stability. Zylon® will only start to break down at 650°C.

Nomex® has high heat resistance and chemical resistance. Nomex® decomposition rate is only after the temperature exceeds 350°C; however, the material does not melt.

Polyester fibres are used where strength, low stretch and durability is needed. Polyester blends well with other fibres such as the Aramid fibres and makes a very good cover. The melting point of Polyester is 260°C but starts to lose strength at 150°C.

Nylon has good strength and recovery characteristics. Nylon can stretch up to 35% of its length before it will break. Nylon will melt at 220°C but starts to lose its strength at 150°C.

Polypropylene is a low cost and light weight option. Polypropylene melts at 140°C but starts to lose strength at 90°C.