HANKUK CARBON

<p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/9c499a6a-da0f-40ef-9382-0cd826f226e9.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>To lift massive structures like aircraft into the sky, materials must be not only incredibly strong but also lightweight and easily moldable into complex shapes. That&rsquo;s why today&rsquo;s passenger planes are built with a variety of advanced composite materials designed to improve both efficiency and performance. Among these, there is one essential yet often unseen material that plays a direct role in passenger safety: aircraft interior materials, notable for their fire resistance, lightweight, and low emission of toxic gases.</p> <p><br /> While fuel efficiency is a key consideration, safety standards that protect lives demand even stricter requirements and rigorous testing. High-performance composites used in aircraft interiors&mdash;often hidden from view&mdash;are emerging as critical assets that determine technological competitiveness in the aerospace industry. In this episode, we introduce Hankuk Carbon&rsquo;s aircraft interior materials, which are officially certified by the global aerospace leader, Boeing.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Boeing Material Specifications, Guaranteeing Aerospace Quality</strong></span></p> <p><br /> The name Boeing is synonymous with aerospace excellence. From fighter jets in 20th-century wars to the commercial aircraft that now dominate skies around the globe, Boeing has long been at the forefront of aerospace technology. More recently, the company has expanded its efforts into space, developing the Starliner spacecraft.</p> <p><br /> Boeing applies extremely strict technical standards and quality criteria to every material used in its aircraft. Among them,&nbsp;<strong>Boeing&#39;s Material Specifications</strong>&nbsp;outline the detailed performance requirements for aerospace-grade materials. Only materials that meet these standards can be supplied to Boeing and its global network of partners.</p> <p><br /> Hankuk Carbon&rsquo;s materials have successfully met these specifications, earning official recognition as qualified suppliers of aircraft interior materials. This is more than just a technical certification&mdash;it represents a significant milestone, affirming Hankuk Carbon&rsquo;s quality and reliability in the global aerospace market.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Hankuk Carbon&rsquo;s Boeing-Approved Materials</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/fe524d39-d34c-4f75-a433-dcbd446c7caf.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></p> <p><br /> In 2019, Hankuk Carbon received Boeing certification for its <strong>HC1127/7781A &amp; HC1131/7781 Glass Phenolic Prepreg</strong>, a phenolic resin-based material reinforced with glass fiber. Known for its excellent fire resistance, the material significantly enhances fire safety by emitting lower levels of heat, smoke, and toxic gases than conventional alternatives.</p> <p><br /> This prepreg is typically used in conjunction with Nomex honeycomb cores to produce aircraft interior components, including wall panels, overhead bins, and partitions. Fully compliant with Boeing&rsquo;s material specifications, it is now listed in Boeing&rsquo;s global supplier database. It is also being considered for next-generation aerospace platforms such as Urban Air Mobility (UAM), thanks to its optimal balance of lightweight features and safety.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Hankuk Carbon&rsquo;s Aerospace Business</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/738c15ba-7ec9-4c41-9746-b521b22656b2.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></p> <p><br /> Hankuk Carbon is actively developing its aerospace business as a key driver of growth. Since 2017, we have partnered with Boeing on a joint R&amp;D project funded by Korea&rsquo;s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, accelerating our development of aerospace-grade composites. In just 21 months, the effort culminated in Boeing certification&mdash;a process that goes far beyond simple product development to include mass production readiness, quality assurance, and testing systems. The achievement highlights Hankuk Carbon&rsquo;s technical excellence.</p> <p><br /> Hankuk Carbon has also made strategic investments to diversify its business portfolio. In 2017, we acquired a stake in <strong>KCI</strong>, a manufacturer of aircraft parts, laying the foundation for our entry into the aerospace components market. In 2018, we established <strong>KAT</strong>, a joint venture with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), to develop vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles. In 2022, the acquisition of Slovakian aerospace parts company <strong>c2i</strong> marked our entry into the European market. These moves reflect Hankuk Carbon&#39;s long-term commitment to growing its aerospace business beyond short-term gains.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br /> By combining the lightweight and safety-enhancing properties of composite materials, Hankuk Carbon is helping to shape the future of the aerospace industry. Boeing certification is a globally recognized mark of trust in our technology and a strategic stepping stone toward expanding the aerospace supply chain and strengthening competitiveness. Hankuk Carbon will continue to lead with innovation and quality, setting new standards in the aircraft materials industry. Stay tuned for more easy-to-understand episodes on the world of advanced composites!</p>

<p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/63b67041-5921-438b-a30e-d46f6701817b.jpg" style="width: 100%; height: 430px;" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>* Hankuk Carbon Story&#39;s [Composite Materials 101], which has been released throughout 2024, is set to evolve to the next level in 2025. Starting with this episode, we will delve deeper into the composite materials industry and the technologies that Hankuk Carbon specializes in. We hope you enjoy the journey of learning and growing with us.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Prepreg Compression Molding (PCM) is a manufacturing technology that enables the rapid production of advanced composite parts. This method is especially gaining attention in the aerospace and automotive industries. While PCM may seem complex, it is pretty straightforward&mdash;so there&#39;s no need to worry. In this episode, we will explore the necessity, advantages, and manufacturing process of PCM with Hankuk Carbon.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Definition and Advantages of the PCM Process</strong></span></p> <p><br /> In the previous episode, we described prepreg as an &quot;intermediate material before solidifying into an advanced component.&quot; PCM is a molding* process that involves pressing prepreg with a compression press.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>* In the composite materials industry, &quot;molding&quot; refers to a process where heat and pressure are applied to materials like plastics, metals, and composites to create parts with specific shapes. Common molding methods include autoclave molding, oven molding, and sheet molding compound (SMC) processes. PCM is in the &quot;press molding&quot; category, where pressure forms components.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The primary reason PCM is drawing attention is its efficiency. For any new technology, including composite materials, widespread adoption hinges on its ability to facilitate mass production. PCM stands out by reducing both molding time and production costs, making it a game-changer in the industry.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>This is achieved through the use of fast cure resins. Hankuk Carbon has developed the FC Series of fast cure resins optimized for the PCM process, offering various properties such as high strength (FC-7 series), transparency (FC-8 series), fire retardancy (FC-9 series), and eco-friendliness (FC-13 series). Hankuk Carbon has successfully reduced the standard molding cycle from around 90 minutes to under 1 minute with these resins, significantly cutting production costs and time. Furthermore, the PCM process can utilize conventional press equipment previously used for metal parts, eliminating the need for additional machinery while maintaining both productivity and mechanical performance.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>The 5 Steps of the PCM Process</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div class="slide-layer__video"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YS3jLKLSk64?si=C1zUiNhT-cqJypSk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/616740be-1d1c-420b-a8a2-9990b61a4705.jpg" style="width: 100%;" /></p> <p>The PCM process involves layering flat prepreg sheets, placing them between preheated molds, and applying compression using a press. The general process consists of the following steps:</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>1.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cutting </strong>&ndash; Prepreg sheets are cut to match the required component size.<br /> <strong>2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Stacking</strong> &ndash; The cut prepreg sheets are stacked in multiple layers.<br /> <strong>3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Heating</strong> &ndash; The stacked material is preheated.<br /> <strong>4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Preforming</strong> &ndash; The preheated material is placed into a preform mold to shape it as needed.<br /> <strong>5.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Curing </strong>&ndash; Pressure is applied using a press to complete the molding process.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Through this series of steps, composite parts can be produced in a very short time.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br /> The PCM process enhances composite parts&#39; productivity, unlocking potential applications across various industries. Furthermore, Hankuk Carbon offers engineering support and molding analysis to identify and resolve potential issues, optimizing the entire process. We will cover these solutions in more detail in an independent episode.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Hankuk Carbon will continue to develop new materials, technologies, and services, striving to achieve a brighter future through our multifunctional solutions. Stay tuned for more insightful topics in our next episode!</p>

<p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/33f27136-58c1-447a-b397-1c47da99cdd5.jpg" style="width: 70%;" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>With the increase in the average income level and work flexibility, there has been a growing social interest in work-life balance. Work-life balance refers to maintaining a balance between work and daily living, and it is considered a crucial factor in improving the quality of life and happiness. According to a 2021 survey by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism,<strong> the time spent participating in and watching sports for leisure activities is gradually increasing</strong>. In this episode, we will explore the role of composite materials in enhancing sports performance.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br /> <span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Sports Materials that Break Records, Cross Limits</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In 2017, Eliud Kipchoge broke the two-hour marathon barrier with &quot;VaporFly,&quot; a pair of running shoes released by Nike. The shoes featured a carbon fiber plate in the midsole to enhance propulsion and minimize the energetic cost of running, which sparked the controversy over technology doping in Athletics. A performance test at the University of Colorado found that VaporFly reduces the energy needed to run by an average of 4 percent. In response, the World Athletics Federation implemented a regulation in February 2020 stating that shoes&#39; sole thickness must be less than 40mm and that only one carbon fiber plate is allowed.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In the world of sports, material technology plays a significant role in enhancing athletes&#39; physical performance. Composite materials, namely prepregs, have exceptional physical properties and can be customized for sports equipment to ensure superior performance. Prepreg is a composite material where reinforcements such as fibers are pre-impregnated with partially cured resin. It is <strong>high-strength, high-modulus, and lightweight</strong>, commonly used in industries such as automotive and aerospace.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Examples of Composites in Sporting Goods</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://www.hcarbon.com/upload/ckeditor/50cb3891-d25c-45a3-be64-bdb0f1c09d31.jpg" style="width: 70%;" /></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Today, composite materials are used to produce various sports &amp; leisure goods.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>A fishing rod</strong> must be durable enough to hook and fight a fish. Before the 1970s, fishing rods were made of bamboo, which is heavy and prone to decay in damp environments. Glass fiber and carbon fiber fishing rods are strong, flexible, and low-maintenance compared to bamboo fishing rods. They are also lightweight, reducing fatigue during long fishing sessions.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>A golf shaft</strong> is the long and slender component of the golf club. It was mainly produced with heavy steel until the first lightweight carbon fiber shaft was produced in 1969. Nowadays, most golf clubs are made of carbon fiber. They possess high elasticity and resilience, allowing the golf ball to travel further.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>A yacht mast</strong> is an essential component for a yacht that supports the sails, allowing wind to propel the hull. Masts are used for racing and sightseeing purposes and must be lightweight and capable of withstanding the ever-changing wind forces. Low-temperature cured carbon fiber composites are high-strength and lightweight, making them the future material for masts to replace aluminum.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><br /> <span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>Hankuk Carbon Aims to Break the Record Once Again</strong></span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Hankuk Carbon was the first manufacturing company in Korea to commercialize carbon fiber prepreg. We began our business in 1984 by producing carbon fiber prepregs for fishing rods. In the 1980s, when 60% of the world&#39;s fishing rod production was from Korea, Hankuk Carbon supplied 80% of the total production, achieving a global market share of nearly 50%. Our win of the $5 million export tower in 1987 proves the excellence we have achieved at the time. Since then, Hankuk Carbon has continuously led the development of the domestic sports &amp; leisure industry by supplying various composite materials for sports, such as golf clubs and yacht masts.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Just as composite materials with excellent physical properties contribute to breaking new records in sports, Hankuk Carbon is also testing its existing limitations through excellent materials and parts. We have been exploring new possibilities and identity as a composite material company in various fields of business, starting with sports &amp; leisure. That will be all for today&#39;s &quot;Composite Materials 101.&quot; We will see you again in our next episode, where we will share another informative story about composite materials!</p>