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Microspheres Bolster Resin Performance

June 7, 2006

Solid-glass microspheres boost plastic strength and improve dimensional stability of molded parts.

Shrinkage at glass sphere loadings of 30% in nylon 66 is reportedly 70 to 80% less than in equivalent nonfilled or glass-fiber-filled versions. Warpage was reduced by 95 to 97%. High microsphere loadings also increase flexural modulus, abrasion resistance, and surface hardness. The spheres have a density of 2.5 gm/cm ³, a crush strength of 30 kpsi, and a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5. They are nonporous and come in A-glass (soda-lime) and E-glass (borosilicate).

Potters Industries Inc., Box 840, Valley Forge, PA 19482, (610) 651-4715, pottersbeads.com

About the Author

Kurt Wattelet | Product Line Manager Overvoltage Components/Surge Protection Devices

Kurt Wattelet is the Overvoltage Component and SPD Product Line Manager at Bourns Inc., responsible for product strategy ensuring that the company’s product roadmap is aligned to meet dynamic application requirements. Wattelet has more than 30 years’ experience in electronics and component marketing. Prior to joining Bourns, Wattelet was a Product Line Manager in charge of SIDACtor OVP and TVS products at Littelfuse Inc. Wattelet earned his degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arkansas.