Trays weight reduction
Trays weight reduction is possible thanks to our unique formulation based on mineral fillers specific for this type of product. This weight reduction is a huge competitive advantage over traditional resin shower trays with a much higher density. Our low weight formulations can reduce the weight of traditional resin shower trays by up to 40%. All this, without modifying the physical-mechanical characteristics neither the quality of the final product. Our unique technology does not require any change in the production process. Shower trays manufacturers can immediately implement this unique technology in production lines already in operation.
If you are interested in reducing the weight of your resin shower trays, read on and you will discover the advantages of this new technology and why is revolutionising the sector.
Mineral fillers for trays weight reduction
Building on our close collaboration with our strategic partners over recent years, we have developed a technology that achieves a reduction in polymer matrix composite materials density. In the particular case of resin shower trays, we have managed to develop different types of mineral fillers that allow a weight reduction of up to 40%. This weight reduction occurs without affecting the original properties of the resin shower tray. Shower trays manufactured using our technology have passed demanding certification tests in accordance with European and British standards applicable to this type of product in independent laboratories.
Our trays weight reduction technology can be easily adapted to any type of production. On the one hand, it is perfectly applicable to all types of resins: polyester, acrylic, vinylester, etc… On the other hand, we can adjust the target trays density to the needs of our clients. Because our technology creates ‘micro-bubbles’ in the polymerised structure, the shower tray coating must be a gelcoat. Considering that, in order to complete our trays weight reduction technology, we have developed high performance gelcoats that guarantee compliance with the requirements and European regulations in force for this type of product. Our gelcoats ensure the highest anti-slip classes, together with multiple possibilities in terms of design (textures, colours, finishes, etc…).
Advantages of weight reduction in shower trays
Thanks to the production of composite materials with a lower density, we obtain much lighter shower trays, but with the same performance and quality. This trays weight reduction gives them extraordinary competitive advantages, since:
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- it allows us to reduce the unit transport cost as we can load many more trays on a lorry or in a container. This is especially relevant for those manufacturers who sell their products in distant markets or who are not competitive at the present for that reason.
- our technology allows for easier handling of the products. This has a significant impact on both the production process and the subsequent assembly itself. In products such as bathtubs, this weight reduction is an even more evident differential advantage. In many projects, this type of product is discarded due to the difficulty of assembly or the cost of the associated logistics.
- our technology boosts productivity without having to make any changes in the way we produce. Thanks to the fact that our technology does not require any changes to existing production lines, we can assure that our customers, after implementing our technology, manage to increase the production of their shower trays by between 15 and 25%, without having to make any modifications on their production process.
AITANA CHEMICALS - polymer matrix composites mineral fillers formulation
With the proliferation of polymer matrix composites for new applications, the formulation of specific mineral fillers has become a science. Building on our close collaboration with our strategic partners over recent years, we are able to offer our customers a technical department specialised in the formulation and combination of mineral fillers. In addition trays weight reduction, we offer technical advice to assess for improving other features of the final product. The rigorous quality control of the minerals selected and chemically and thermally treated allows us to offer maximum guarantees.
Conclusion
Trays weight reduction, while maintaining their original quality and performance, is revolutionising the whole sector. Our unique technology is increasingly demanded and implemented in factories all over the world. The reduction in transport costs, the ease of assembly thanks to lighter trays and the improvements in productivity, make this technology a true revolution. AITANA CHEMICALS has a technical department specialised in the formulation and combination of mineral fillers. If you have any queries, do not hesitate to contact us.
If you want to know more about our developments in mineral fillers formulation, we recommend you read our complete guide on mineral fillers.