Details
High Silica Chopped Strand is made by chopping continuous silica fiberglass staple yarns (SiO₂ content ≥96%), which are drawn and wound from high-grade glass marbles via a Na₂O-B₂O₃-SiO₂ system. It’s a high-performance inorganic fiber with standout corrosion resistance and extreme temperature tolerance—perfect for refractory and insulation applications. We also offer an economical grade (SiO₂ ≈80%, no pre-shrinking treatment) for cost-sensitive projects!
Manufacturing Process of high silica chopped strands:
1.High silica glass composition melting
2.Fiber spinning through bushings (6-10 micron diameter)
3.Collection into continuous strands or rovings
4.Application of sizing/binder (if required)
5.Precision chopping to specified lengths
6.Packaging and quality control
Identification &Technical Data:
-Filament Diameter: 6–10μm (tolerance ±1μm,)
-Strand Length: 3–950mm (custom lengths available: 3, 6, 12, 25mm are most popular)
-SiO₂ Content: Standard grade ≥96%;
-Na₂O Content: <0.8%
-Moisture Content: ≤7% (ideal ≤5% for better processing)
-Breaking Strength: ≥4.0 N per strand
-Continuous Operating Temp: 1000℃ (standard grade); 900℃ (economical grade)
-Short-Term Temp Resistance: 1200℃ (≤30 minutes, standard grade only)
-Loss on Ignition (LOI): <8% (standard grade); <10% (economical grade)
-Bulk Density: 0.15–0.25 g/cm³ (for reference, easy to process)
-pH Value: 6.5–7.5 (neutral, compatible with most substrates)
What are the key features of high silica chopped strands?
-Ultra-High Temperature Resistance: Continuous use up to 980-1100°C, short-term to 1400°C
-Thermal Insulation: Low thermal conductivity (0.035-0.055 W/m·K at 200°C)
-Chemical Stability: Excellent resistance to acids (except HF and hot H₃PO₄) and most chemicals
-Electrical Insulation: High dielectric strength even at elevated temperatures
-Low Thermal Expansion: Coefficient approximately 0.5 × 10⁻⁶/°C
-Non-Combustible: Will not burn, melt, or support combustion
-Hydrophilic Nature: Good wettability with water-based systems
-Dispersibility: Engineered for uniform dispersion in various matrices
-Low Shot Content: Minimal unfiberized particles (typically <5%)
How many types of high silica chopped strands are there?
-Hish silica chopped strands can be classified according to filament diameter, fiber length, surface treatment, SiO₂ content, and so on. However, whether the fiber is twisted is usually ignored by most clients. Please let us know this factor when you send us your requirements.
What benefits and advantages do high silica chopped strands have compared to other chopped strands?
vs. E-Glass Chopped Strands:
-Temperature: 400-500°C higher temperature capability
-Thermal Conductivity: 25-30% lower thermal conductivity
-Chemical Resistance: Superior acid resistance
-Electrical Properties: Better high-temperature dielectric properties
-Thermal Expansion: 80% lower thermal expansion coefficient
vs. Ceramic (Alumino-Silicate) Chopped Fibers:
-Purity: Higher SiO₂ content (96-99% vs. 45-55%)
-Thermal Conductivity: Lower by 15-20%
-Cost: Typically 20-40% less expensive
-Handling: Less dusting and irritation potential
-Thermal Shock: Superior thermal shock resistance
vs. Carbon Chopped Fibers:
-Oxidation Resistance: Stable in air at high temperatures (carbon oxidizes above 400°C)
-Electrical Insulation: Non-conductive
-Cost: Significantly lower cost
-Thermal Expansion: Lower thermal expansion
vs. Basalt Chopped Fibers:
-Temperature Resistance: 200-300°C higher continuous use temperature
-Chemical Purity: Higher and more consistent SiO₂ content
-Thermal Conductivity: 15-25% lower
-Acid Resistance: Superior resistance to acidic environments
What applications are high silica chopped strands used for?
-Core material for High Silica Needle Mats, Heat-Resistant Mats, and Insulation Mats.
-Main and perfect raw material for high silica paper.
-Reinforcement for refractory castables, ceramics, and high-temperature composites.
-Thermal insulation filler for furnaces, kilns, and industrial equipment.
-Filter media for high-temperature gas/liquid filtration (e.g., in metallurgy or chemical plants).
-Additive for fireproof coatings, sealants, and abrasion-resistant materials.
-Used in electrical insulation components (e.g., high-temperature gaskets, cable fillers).
How to store and handle high silica chopped strands?
Except where otherwise noted, high silica fiberglass products should be kept in a cool, tidy, dry location. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 35°C, and relative humidity ranges from 35% to 65%. Please do Not unpack its original packing before they will be put into production. The products have no known shelf life when stored properly. However, please retest them 36 months after their initial production date to ensure their good performance.
FAQ
Question 1: What are the main differences between high silica chopped strands and continuous filaments?
A: High silica chopped strands are discontinuous fibers (3-50 mm) designed for dispersion in matrices, while silica continuous filaments are unbroken fibers used for weaving or winding. Silica chopped strands provide isotropic reinforcement, easier mixing, and are used where continuous reinforcement isn't feasible or necessary.
Question 2: Can high silica chopped strands be used with epoxy resin?
A: Yes, but with considerations:
-Use compatible sizing if available
-Maximum temperature resistance will be limited by the epoxy matrix (typically 150-200°C)
-Fiber loading typically 5-10% by weight
-The composite will retain better high-temperature properties than pure epoxy
-Post-curing may be needed if sizing is present
Question 3: What is the maximum fiber loading of silica chopped strands in various matrices?
A: Typical maximum loadings are as below:
-Cement/concrete: 1-3% by weight
-Refractory castables: 3-5% by weight
-Polymer resins: 5-15% by weight (depending on viscosity)
-Ceramic slurries: 2-8% by weight
-Gunning mixes: 2-4% by weight
Question 4: How do I achieve good dispersion for high silica chopped strands in my matrix?
A: Dispersion techniques:
1.Pre-wetting: Mix fibers with a small amount of liquid first
2.Gradual Addition: Add fibers slowly to vortex during mixing
3.High-Shear Mixing: Use appropriate equipment
4.Dispersion Aids: Consider surfactants or coupling agents
5.Sequential Addition: Add fibers before other fillers
6.Optimal Time: Mix long enough to disperse but not damage fibers
Question 5: Can silica chopped strands be recycled or reused?
A: Limited recyclability:
-Unused material can often be returned to sealed containers
-Cured composites cannot be separated into original components
-Some processes allow grinding of cured materials for use as filler
-Check with manufacturer for specific recycling programs
-Consider thermal recovery in high-temperature processes
Question 6: How do I choose the right fiber length of silica chopped strands for my application?
A: Selection guidelines:
-Short (3-6 mm): Spray applications, thin coatings, fine surface finish
-Medium (6-12 mm): General purpose, balanced properties, most common
-Long (12-25 mm): Improved reinforcement, crack bridging, higher viscosity systems
-Extra Long (25-50 mm): Specialized composites, needled felts, high aspect ratio needs
Question 7: Can I use high silica chopped strands to make high silica paper?
A: Absolutely! It’s the primary raw material for high silica paper—disperses evenly and forms strong, heat-resistant sheets.
