eurolaser x Propex: solutions for high-end composite materials
Propex Furnishing Solutions GmbH & Co. KG, Germany
Propex Furnishing Solutions GmbH & Co. KG (PFS) specialises in the manufacture of synthetic surface materials and is one of the world’s leading suppliers in the field of technical composite materials. The company develops innovative solutions for a wide range of applications – from flooring to the furniture and automotive industries through to specialised technical applications – and stands for quality, functionality and global supply reliability.
Further information on the collaboration with eurolaser
eurolaser tested the following materials from Propex on its laser cutting machines:
Laser test: CURV®
Laser cutting of thermoplastic composite materials
Material
CURV® is a self-reinforced, fully recyclable thermoplastic with high impact resistance. The lightweight, cold-resistant and thermally formable material is manufactured by Propex Furnishing Solutions in a multi-stage process. The woven structure enables high energy absorption with low material thickness. CURV® is used in protective clothing, luggage, sports equipment and vehicle components – as sheet material, moulded parts or face layers.
Test setup
CURV® was tested on a static XL-1600 laser cutting machine with a 450 W CO₂ laser – ideal for large-format sheet materials. Thanks to the honeycomb table with optimised vacuum generation, no manual fixing was required. With the conventional mechanical processing previously used, the cut edges must be deburred in additional processing steps.
Result
CURV® was tested in two thicknesses and rated as excellently suitable in both cases. Compared to knife cutting, the laser effortlessly produces intricate contours without overcuts and leaves burr-free, precise cut edges. Material breakage and waste are reduced to a minimum. The entire process is dust-free and leaves no burn marks on the material.
Advantages
Burr-free, residue-free cut edges.
Easy material removal after processing.
Intricate contours at high cutting speed.
High repeat accuracy without tool wear.
Laser test certificates
excellently suitable
excellently suitable