Hexcel has launched an enhanced HexWeb® CRPAA-5052-F80-12.0 Vented Flex-Core® aluminum honeycomb. The material is designed to simplify the manufacturing of highly contoured composite structures used in next-generation space launch vehicles. The high-density core combines increased formability with integrated venting for demanding aerospace applications.
The new Flex-Core material has a density of 12.0 lb./ft³. Its cell architecture provides greater flexibility and formability than conventional hexagonal honeycomb. Hexcel said the design can reduce or eliminate machining and minimize splicing when producing complex composite structures. This can help lower manufacturing complexity and enable the production of larger structures.
The core is manufactured from 5052 aluminum alloy. It is protected with a phosphoric acid anodized (PAA) corrosion-resistant coating. The material can operate at temperatures of up to 350°F (177°C). This supports applications where composite sandwich structures must withstand elevated temperatures and demanding operating conditions.
A key feature of the product is its integrated venting capability. The venting helps composite sandwich structures manage pressure differentials and outgassing during launch and other aerospace operating conditions. Hexcel is offering the material in both vented and non-vented configurations.
The material is also intended for high-temperature aerospace structures such as engine nacelles. These applications require lightweight structural cores that can accommodate complex geometries while operating at elevated temperatures.
Hexcel will showcase the enhanced Vented Flex-Core at CAMX 2026. The material will be presented alongside the company's other composite materials and manufacturing technologies for aerospace, defense, and space applications. The product expands Hexcel's honeycomb portfolio for demanding composite structures.
Source: Hexcel | News
