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Description
Description
High performance, unexpanded and unperforated aluminium honeycomb core material made from 5052 grade alloy. This aluminium honeycomb can be used to reduce the weight and increase the stiffness of composite panels in a wide range of applications.
With a 3.2mm cell size and a density of 0.0721g/cm³, this honeycomb is one of the highest specification honeycombs available. It is utilized in the most demanding motorsport and aerospace applications to create incredibly strong sandwich panels. The smaller cell size creates a stronger, albeit heavier honeycomb. Additional options include aluminium honeycomb with 6.4mm and 19.1mm cell sizes.
Please note:
- The honeycomb cells are nominally standard hexagons. The cell size shown is the measurement between any two opposite sides when correctly expanded.
- The aluminium honeycomb is shipped in unexpanded (block) form. This makes it more cost-effective to ship and ensures that it is delivered undamaged. Specialist equipment is needed to expand the sheet.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminium Honeycomb |
| Shape | Sheet |
| Colour | Silver |
| Density (g/cm³) | 0.0721 |
| Plate sheer strength (MPa) | 2.34 lengthways |
| 1.52 widthways | |
| Compressive strength (MPa) | 3.85 |
| Plate sheer modulus (MPa) | 482 lengthways |
| 214 widthways | |
| Service temp long term max (°C) | 120 |
Expanding the Block
Expanding the Aluminium Honeycomb
Important: wear gloves when handling the block.
Typically, aluminium honeycomb is supplied unexpanded as the expanded block is susceptible to damage during transport. Large-scale manufacturing uses specialized machines to expand it, but for smaller applications, an alternative method is needed. This guide outlines a simple, manual way to expand the aluminium honeycomb.
Equipment Needed
You will need two wooden battens, each as wide as the honeycomb sheet and sturdy enough to prevent excessive flexing (2" by 4" wooden battens are ideal). Additionally, you will need a bag of long wood nails. These nails should be long enough to penetrate both the wooden batten and the honeycomb. For cutting the honeycomb, you'll need a steel ruler and a sharp, long-blade Stanley type knife.
Making the Expansion Tools
- Take one of the wooden battens and mark a series of dots along its length, spaced appropriately for the honeycomb dimensions.
FAQ
- What are the applications of aluminium honeycomb? Aluminium honeycomb is widely used in aerospace, automotive, and construction industries for lightweight and durable composite panels.
- How is the honeycomb shipped? It is shipped in unexpanded (block) form to prevent damage during transport.
- What safety measures should be taken when expanding the block? Always wear gloves while handling the honeycomb to avoid injury.