Polyimide for Aerospace: The Superior Choice with APICAL® Polyimide Film

In the demanding environment of the aircraft and aerospace industry, materials must meet stringent performance standards. APICAL® Polyimide Film, a product of Kaneka North America, is the premier choice for wire and cable insulation in commercial and military aircraft, space vehicles, satellites, and missiles. This advanced polyimide for aerospace applications delivers unmatched performance and reliability.

Exceptional Insulation Properties

APICAL® Polyimide Film, often coated or laminated with FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), is used in narrow-width tapes to produce insulation with superior heat-sealability. This polyimide for aerospace applications provides improved abrasion and cut-through resistance, ensuring longevity and durability in harsh environments. Additionally, APICAL® Polyimide offers excellent dielectric and thermal properties, which are critical for maintaining electrical integrity in high-stress aerospace conditions.

Superior Fire Resistance

A critical consideration for commercial aircraft manufacturers is the material’s response to fire. APICAL® Polyimide exhibits virtually smokeless characteristics when exposed to flame, achieving a UL -94VO rating for flammability. This feature is paramount in enhancing passenger and crew safety, as it reduces the risk of smoke inhalation during emergencies, making this polyimide for aerospace applications exceptionally safe.

Compliance with Industry Standards

APICAL® Polyimide Film is certified to meet all requirements of ASTM D5213 and IPC 4201/1, ensuring compliance with rigorous industry standards. It boasts a UL Thermal Index for continuous operation at temperatures ranging from 200°C to 240°C, while retaining most of its electrical integrity even when briefly exposed to temperatures as high as 400°C. This thermal resilience is a significant advantage of using polyimide for aerospace applications, where components often face extreme temperature variations.

Lightweight and Mechanically Robust

In aerospace design, every gram counts. APICAL® Polyimide Film is not only lightweight but also mechanically tough, offering extraordinary thermal cycling capabilities. This robustness ensures dependable electrical and electronic operation throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle, from take-off to landing. The film’s durability under thermal stress cycles makes it a reliable choice for engineers seeking high-performance polyimide for aerospace insulation materials.

Why Choose APICAL Polyimide For Aerospace?

APICAL® Polyimide Film stands out as the material of choice in the aerospace industry due to its exceptional thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties. Its smokeless flame resistance, compliance with industry standards, and ability to perform under extreme temperatures make it indispensable for modern aerospace applications. When considering polyimide for aerospace, trust APICAL® Polyimide for superior performance and safety in all your aerospace insulation needs.