An Alternative to Carbon Fiber? Discover MAGNAVI®

Date : 2025.01.16

What is MAGNAVI®?

MAGNAVI® is a newly developed glass fiber that boasts exceptional properties such as high elasticity and high strength. It offers greater acid resistance, as well as significantly higher tensile strength and elastic modulus compared to conventional E-glass.

At the same time, it retains key characteristics of E-glass, including heat resistance and electromagnetic wave transparency. This groundbreaking material is more affordable than carbon fiber, making it a cost-effective alternative.                  

Moreover, MAGNAVI® is free from rare earth elements, which are associated with environmental risks.

The production process also focuses on reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions, making MAGNAVI® a sustainable product that contributes to the realization of a decarbonized society.


Why MAGNAVI®?

Outstanding Mechanical Properties

  • MAGNAVI® combines high strength and elasticity with the unique properties of glass fiber, delivering superior impact resistance that even surpasses carbon fiber.

Distinctive Features of Glass Fiber

  • With excellent electromagnetic wave transparency, insulation, and heat resistance, MAGNAVI® is suitable for various specialized applications, including electronics and industrial uses.

Cost Performance

  • MAGNAVI® is more affordable than carbon fiber, offering a practical and cost-effective option for a wider range of applications.

Environmentally Conscious Design

  • MAGNAVI® series is designed with sustainability in mind, reducing energy consumption and CO₂ emissions during production.

Additionally, it is free from rare earth elements, making it an environmentally friendly choice.


Applications of MAGNAVI®

MAGNAVI® is highly effective in improving the strength and elasticity of composite materials.

Its exceptional impact resistance helps reduce the risk of material damage caused by unexpected collisions or drop impacts.

Strength Evaluation of FRP Prepregs Using MAGNAVI®

Comparison conducted with prepregs made of 3K-CF and MAGNAVI® cross materials (both 200 g/m²) with a fiber volume fraction (Vf) of 50%.

MAGNAVI® offers several advantages over traditional E-glass, including greater strength, heat resistance, and acid resistance. 

Below, we present a comparison of MAGNAVI® and E-glass to illustrate these benefits.

*The data represents a comparison of single fiber properties and is not a guaranteed value.

*Coefficient of Thermal Expansion

** Sulfuric Acid


Fields of Application for MAGNAVI®

High Elasticity & Strength x Electromagnetic Wave Transparency

MAGNAVI® offers superior mechanical properties and electrical insulation compared to conventional E-glass fibers, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

For instance, materials with excellent electromagnetic wave transparency, such as glass fiber-reinforced plastics and PTFE films, are commonly used in radomes antennas.

In addition to its wave transparency, MAGNAVI® has exceptional weather resistance, enduring UV exposure, rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations in harsh outdoor environments. This durability ensures stable performance over extended periods, extending the lifespan of radomes and reducing maintenance costs.

[Applications]

  • Radomes
  • UD components for electronic devices
  • Lightweight, high-strength, and insulating materials for power equipment
  • GFRP enclosures (including Central Plates) for medium to large drones

Impact Resistance x Design Flexibility x Cost Advantage

MAGNAVI® can serve as an alternative to carbon fiber. While its elastic modulus is slightly lower, it surpasses carbon fiber in impact resistance. Additionally, MAGNAVI® offers greater design flexibility, as carbon fiber is limited to a single black color, whereas MAGNAVI® allows for a variety of color options. Its affordability also makes it suitable for more general-purpose applications.

For example, MAGNAVI® is can be used as a replacement material in products where carbon fiber is already utilized, such as aircraft interior components and air cylinder materials.

[Applications]

  • Air cylinders
  • High-pressure gas containers
  • Hydrogen tanks for FCVs
  • Aircraft interior materials: flooring, cargo hold wall panels

High Strength & Elasticity (Lightweight) x Electrical Insulation x Corrosion Resistance (Acid Resistance)

For example, ceramic materials are commonly used for insulators in high-voltage power transmission. Insulators require exceptional weather resistance, high strength, and electrical insulation. In such cases, carbon fiber cannot be used, making MAGNAVI® an ideal choice for application.

Additionally, MAGNAVI® can be used as a reinforcing material for drone enclosures, offering enhanced strength and reduced weight.

[Applications]

  • Polymer insulators
  • GFRP wires

⚠️Handling Precautions

The sizing agents and surface treatments applied to glass fibers are generally flammable.

Special care must be taken, particularly with glass fibers in a fluffy or loose state, as they can ignite easily.

These agents may also degrade under high temperature or humidity or due to temperature fluctuations, which can lead to product defects.

Please follow these storage guidelines:

  • Store the product in its original packaging and protect it from water exposure.
  • Avoid high-temperature and high-humidity environments; store the product in a cool, dark place (10–35°C, humidity 40–70%).
  • Do not leave the product in high-temperature or high-humidity conditions for extended periods during handling.
  • If there is a significant temperature difference between the storage location and the usage environment, allow the product to acclimate for at least 24 hours before use.
  • Avoid rubbing the bobbin flanges or other parts of the product against hard surfaces, as this may cause damage.

⚠️Precautions During Handling

Contact with glass fiber products or airborne glass fibers during work may cause temporary itching or irritation to the skin, eyes, throat, or nose. Take the following precautions to minimize risks:

  • Wear loose, long-sleeved clothing with collars (preferably with cuffs and ankle closures), protective gloves, safety goggles, and certified dust masks.
  • When cutting or grinding glass fibers or handling powdered materials such as glass powder, milled fibers, or glass flakes, install localized exhaust ventilation or take other necessary measures.
  • Collect and dispose of debris from cutting promptly in sealed bags to prevent dust dispersion.
  •  After handling, wash hands and any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and warm water, and rinse your mouth.
  • Wash work clothing separately from other garments.
  • If itching or irritation persists, consult a physician.

MAGNAVI® is a registered product of Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd., and Maeda Enterprises is the official distributor in Thailand.

Sales of roving and yarn are subject to export regulations and adjustments. Availability will be confirmed on a case-by-case basis, and we appreciate your understanding.

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