Light, Durable, Efficient

In the early 1990’s Bainbridge International’s application of scrim technology, revolutionised the laminated sailcloth market. Since then Bainbridge has remained at the leading edge through evolution and perfection of the original concept. The most recent upgrades to the DIAX range has once again put Bainbridge at the leading edge. The DIAX range of high performance laminates from Bainbridge International is designed to deliver the ultimate combination of light weight and durability sought by all racing sailors.

DIAX-OS-HMC utilizes High Modulus Carbon and Twaron Fiber to make some of the strongest and lowest stretch laminate sailcloth Bainbridge have ever made. The mix of fibers in the cloth results in a fabric that benefits from the best properties of both Carbon, for ultimate low stretch, and Twaron for durability and shock load resistance. On the water testing during has already proven the incredible performance of DIAX-OS-HMC.

Construction

All DIAX products are based on our scrim component technology. Flat, untwisted ribbons of fibre are formed into a number of scrims that maximise the performance of the yarn. In every DIAX fabric a zero crimp warp/fill scrim resists primary and secondary loading. This is combined with a unique 45º diagonal axis scrim to reduce bias stretch.

• DIAX improves sail shape retention with diagonal axis fibres forming a buttress, locking together the warp and fill yarns to keep your sail’s design shape.
• DIAX sails are light because bias loading is resisted by low stretch fibres instead of a heavier thickness of film.
• DIAX sails last because durable multi-axis yarns are used to resist off-threadline loads, instead of less durable film. The diagonal axis ribbons also support a traditionally weak area in laminates, reducing degradation from an effect known as ‘hinging’.
• To further increase durability PP and PW styles incorporate a taffeta backing.

The Promise

All DIAX fabrics feature outstanding low stretch, light weight and durability, and include a revolutionary diagonal axis scrim.

• Proven laminating technology: Specially developed adhesives optimise bond strength with minimal weight.
• Ribbon scrim technology: Scrim fibres are laid as flat tapes rather than round yarns to reduce thickness and improve adhesion.
• Zero crimp scrims: All scrims are formed by a bonding process that eliminates the crimp associated with weaving that results in stretch.
• Reduced hinging: The triaxial configuration reduces ‘hinging’, a known cause of laminate breakdown and shrinkage.
• Reduced film loading: Diagonal axis ribbons resist off threadline loads without relying on film and locks in sail shape.
• Available with Dacron, Pentex, High Modulus Twaron primary yarns or High Modulus Carbon with and without durable taffetas for use in a variety of applications.