DIAB Releases New TriAx Scrim for ProBalsa

Diab is transitioning to a new scrim for its ProBalsa and Probalsa Plus end grain balsa core product lines.

To allow core to conform to curved surfaces, DIAB processes ProBalsa in GS (Grid Scored) configuration. The core is cut into small blocks (1 inch by 2 inches) which are held together with a fibreglass backing (scrim) to maintain a standard sheet size (2 feet by 4 feet).

The new scrim is a 2.0 oz/yd2 fibreglass fabric with fibres oriented in the 0°, +45° and -45° directions, thus technically labeling it a triaxial scrim, or TriAx for short. The traditional scrim is a 2.4 oz/yd2 fibreglass cloth with a tight weave in the 0° and 90° directions.

TriAx is not only lighter than the previous scrim version, but also increases the direct surface bonding area between the core and the laminated skin. It features substantially larger "windows" between the fibre bundles than other scrims. This increases the bonding area and results in excellent skin-to-core adhesion, a necessity for good composite sandwich construction. An improved bond line results in a stronger sandwich panel. Through laboratory testing the skin-to-core adhesion improves by up to 10%.

Furthermore the new TriAx scrim has consistent glue content, which ensures uniform scrim bond throughout the core sheet. Due to the fibre orientations, the tear resistance of the scrim during material handling is considerably higher than the traditional scrim.

Customers who have been introduced to DIAB's new scrim are very positive about this change, and see it as an innovation in scrim technology to help achieve better results in their lamination process.

DIAB manufacturers and markets ProBalsa. DIAB core materials and composite solutions make products light, strong, and competitive. Whatever the application, DIAB aims to partner with its customers in order to provide innovative solutions. For more information please contact us.

Diab ProBalsa GS new open weave scrim system increases skin-to-core bond strength by up to 10% over conventional scrim systems.

Conventional close weave heavy scrim system.

Photo shoes Balsa surface on the non scrim side sanded to close tollerances and scoring in both directions allowing excellent flexibility.

53' (16m) hull with ProBalsa in hull bottom and topsides using bonding paste and vibrating roller application system.