Basalt Composites: Setting The Standard for Cryogenic Insulation
Basalt is an extrusive igneous rock that is formed when lava is exhumed from a volcano and cools rapidly on the surface of the earth so that only smaller crystals are able to form. It is the most common volcanic rock on the planet; lining the oceanic crust as well as many of the volcanic islands. However, in order to turn this volcanic rock into a cloth to be made into a composite material it must go through a separation and extrusion process. Interestingly enough, it is processed much like steel. The raw material is melted, poured into a teapot shaped vessel (skimmer) where most impurities are separated by differences in specific gravity and (like slag from steel), forced out the teapot spout, and then extruded into filaments.
Known for its thermal properties, Basalt retains mechanical properties at cryogenic temperatures down to - 260°C. Exceptional mechanical properties, superior electrical resistance, resistance to corrosive chemicals and UV resistance provide a material that is phenomenal in extreme conditions.
Currently we offer a Basalt filament composite bound with an epoxy resin system. Our Lamitex® grade EB11-CR out-performs NEMA G10 & G11 in thermal conductivity, flexural strength, compressive strength, tensile strength, and dielectric permeability. Contact us today to find out more about this ingenious igneous composite!
