Saint-Gobain to feature Meldin 7000 lightweight polyimide solutions for aerospace finished parts at the Paris Air Show

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that climbing jet fuel prices will cost the airline industry US$176 billion in 2011, and as fuel costs continue to rise, so does the importance of lightweight components in aircraft systems. Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, a leading manufacturer of high-performance polymer components, will be showcasing Meldin® 7000, a lightweight high-temperature solution for aerospace finished parts, at the 49th International Paris Air Show at le Bourget Exhibition Center in Paris from June 20-26, 2011 (Hall 2b E138). With its unique combination of performance properties, Meldin 7000 provides high performance finished parts that are 50% lighter than aluminum, reducing total systems weight and decreasing fuel consumption without sacrificing quality or safety.

Found in auxiliary power units (APUs), de-icing systems, cabin air-conditioning systems, actuators, and landing gear systems, Meldin 7000 advanced high-temperature finished parts fortify the overall performance of critical aircraft equipment, strengthening customers' brands. Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics technical experts will be available at the show to discuss Meldin 7000's ability to withstand challenging aerospace environments, including:

• Dimensional stability at high temperatures

• Excellent chemical resistance

• Longer life at higher loads and speeds

• Superior thermal insulation properties

In addition, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics will unveil its comprehensive customer support strategy, which provides direct access to the company's design and co-engineering capabilities, material testing resources, and machining expertise, providing complete powder-to-parts process control. This unique support strategy enhances operations and gives customers the security of a single-source supply chain.