Cytec offers a range of tooling prepregs to meet the various needs of the composite industry.

Our epoxy materials are designed to fulfil a broad range of cure temperatures and are designed to function consistently in 350°F cure tool applications. The BMI materials require higher cure temperature, 350°F and have much longer tool life. All of our products provide superior handling (drape and tack) characteristics and product uniformity. For a side-by-side comparison of Cytec's tooling product portfolio, please reference the table below.

When selecting the best material for a particular tool, two main factors need to be addressed:

• Master material - determines the limits of the tool fabrication process: temp and pressure capability

• Tooling materials - impacts the tool life expectancy

Epoxy systems
Epoxy systems offer the advantage of being able to cure at very low temperatures. This enables good dimensional accuracy even with high CTE master materials. Epoxy tooling is generally limited to less than 300 cure cycles at temps of 350°F.

BMI systems
Through increased resistance to the degradation mechanisms BMI systems offer exceptional tool life, but require high temp processing.

• Reduce oxidation and improved Tg stability; does not become brittle or microcrack over time

• Maintains a Tg above the component cure temperature even when moisture saturated; it will not blister or delaminate

• Proven to last 1000+ cure cycles

Select the product name below to access the datasheet:

• CYFORM 22 - Ideal for fabricating accurate tools from high CTE master model materials

• CYFORM 777 - Delivers an excellent balance of working time and low temperature cure capability

• CYFORM 7620 - Provides the maximum tack and working life for large, difficult to layup tools

• DURATOOL 450 - Proven to be capable of over 1000 cure cycles at 375°F

• DURATOOL 5270-2 - Have exceptional oxidation resistance providing long-term use for cure cycles up to 232°C (450°F)