Fiber composite technology
for components that can do even more

Specialists for complex material connections

As experts in fiber composite technology, we use fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) in all shaping processes. In extrusion, for example, we use glass fibers as a reinforcing element with high resilience. The pultruded rod is integrated into a plastic matrix in a continuous process.

In injection molding, we process short-fibre-reinforced plastic compounds into particularly resilient components. We process granulates with a fiber content of up to 40 percent. They provide the desired strength, especially in combination with high-performance plastics.

Fields of application for fiber composite technology

GRP injection molding

Due to their low cost, glass fibers are the most important reinforcing materials for plastics. They are chemically and thermally resistant, have a high tensile strength of 2,400 to 3,500 N / mm² and are easy to process. We combine the fibers with thermoplastics, thermosets or so-called high-performance plastics. However, these are not always necessary. Example: A polyester reinforced with glass fibers can withstand continuous service temperatures between -100 and +155 °C.

Product examples

Pultrusion and pullwinding

We process continuous fibers and rovings (rectified fiber strands) in continuous processes to create profiles with wall thicknesses of just one to 60 mm. In pultrusion, the fibers pass through a resin bath and are then formed into the desired shape in a heated tool, whereas in pullwinding, winding robots always produce a rotationally symmetrical component. Many of our products are given a thermoplastic coating, which ensures a good appearance and surface quality, or they are overmolded as reinforcing elements.

Product examples

Fiber-reinforced inserts

We use fiber profiles as inserts specifically where high strength is required. The rest of the component contour is created by injection molding. Compared to inserts made of steel or aluminum, fiber composite profiles have the great advantage that they weld with the injection molding compound and thus form a full-surface, material-locking connection – while metal inserts are only connected to the injection molding compound by positive locking. The material bond allows high forces to be introduced into the component without damaging the material, and stress peaks are minimized or even completely avoided.

Product examples

Natural fibers

The processing of natural fiber-reinforced plastics (NFRP) and wood-polymer materials (WPC) is innovative. For our customers, we test different fillers that are used in food production – such as the shells of sunflower seeds and oat husks – in small batches. We can also reliably process material mixtures with the smallest leather remnants, sisal and kenaf. The warm feel and natural surface is not only an interesting alternative for vehicle interiors and furniture, but also for outdoor areas – as decking or for facades.

Product examples

Using natural fibers sensibly

Appearance: The natural surface structure and warm feel make the use of natural fibers particularly suitable for handles and surfaces that come into direct contact with the skin.
Sustainability: Natural fibers are renewable resources and are often even produced as residual materials. This means that – with a few exceptions – they have a much lower CO2 footprint than synthetic fibers.
Weight: Most natural fibers are lighter than glass fibers or carbon fibers. Hemp fibers weigh around 1.5 g/cm₃, carbon fibers 1.75 g/cm₃ and glass fibers even 2.55 g/cm₃.
Vibration damping: The better ability of natural fibers to dampen vibrations is ideal for applications in components subject to structural mechanical stress. Glass and carbon fibers perform significantly worse here.
Insulating effect: The natural insulating properties of the fibers can reduce heat and sound transmission through the material.
Abrasion: Natural fibers are often less abrasive than glass or carbon fibers. This can make them easier to process, as tools have a longer service life. In the injection molding process, however, relatively coarse fibers can become a problem by clogging the nozzles. With their very fine and smooth fibers, cotton fiber-reinforced plastics are therefore particularly suitable here.

The subsequent purpose of use and the environment of the component are crucial. The fibers show increased shrinkage and tend to absorb moisture because, as natural materials, they are not 100 percent UV-stable, weatherproof and weatherproof. We therefore carry out our own tests based on our experience and work with external laboratories if necessary.

Powerful partner

In our technical centre, we develop different methods for processing fibres. For example, there is also a braided wheel and the option of incorporating foamed plastic elements. We advise, support you in the selection of materials and can carry out many tests in-house.

Process combinations

Together with our toolmaking and mechanical engineering departments, we develop tool and plant technologies suitable for series production, even for highly complex process combinations since fibre-reinforced profiles are often further integrated into subsequent manufacturing processes.

Worldwide availability

Customers also benefit from our global logistics. With our production sites in Europe, Asia, the USA and Brazil as well as a network of wholesalers and service points, we are there for you worldwide.

Contact The fastest way to us

Are you looking for a lightweight alternative to conventional materials? Do you have a challenge for our specialists? We are happy to help.

OKE Group GmbH
Nobelstraße 7
48477 Hörstel
Germany

Phone: +49 5459 914-0
info@oke-group.com

Fiber composite technology for components that can do even more

OKE worldwide

Fiber composite technology
for components that can do even more