Issue 18/2015 - SABIC launches a new line of aircraft interior panels

SABIC introduces a new line of aircraft interior panels

SABIC is showcasing its latest LEXANXHR LIGHT sheet range, which includes two grades: XHRL300 and XHRL200, as well as numerous other innovative solutions
for aircraft interiors at the International Aircraft Interiors Expo.

SABIC's new high-performance LEXAN XHR LIGHT sheet is the lightest sheet on the market capable of deep thermoforming, and can be used in applications
where weight is desired and impact strength is not too demanding.
The sheet is also the lightest of all thermoplastic sheets, regardless of
the material used as the substrate, that are currently fully compliant with industry regulations.
Since the density of LEXAN XHRL 300 and XHRL 200 sheets is 0.
94g/cm3 and 1.
07g/cm3 respectively, if it replaces the traditional solid sheet products based on polyvinyl chloride and acrylic acid mixture (PVC/PMMA), the weight can be reduced by up to 36% and 28%,
respectively.

LEXAN XHR LIGHT PANELS FEATURE AN INNOVATIVE CLOSED-CELL STRUCTURE THAT WHEN HEATED TO FORM COMPLEX THREE-DIMENSIONAL SHAPED PARTS WITH VERY THIN WALLS, CAN HELP SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE OVERALL WEIGHT AND IMPROVE FUEL EFFICIENCY
ACROSS AN AIRLINE FLEET.
Using LEXAN XHR LIGH sheet instead of PVC/PMMA solid sheet for seat backs can help improve fuel savings, saving approximately $660 per
kilogram of weight saved.
Using a typical 150-seat aircraft, this plate could help save up to $33,000 per narrow-body aircraft in fuel costs
per year.
These new solutions can also be considered for interior components such as seat armrests, folding tables, sun visors, foot pedals, side panels, seat finishes, magazine racks, cockpit dashboard covers, partitions, baggage compartments and passenger service units
.
(Ying Chen)