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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.
Component
fibres are combined in scrims that benefit from the strengths of all the
fibres used. High Modulus Twaron warps provide incredible strength in
the primary load bearing axis and are used to resist fill loads, while
alternate Spectra fibres add tear strength to the finished laminate. Finally
a Spectra DIAX scrim adds bias stability to lock in sail shape. DIAX-HMT
laminates are suitable for no compromise applications from dinghies up
to America’s Cup class yachts and are available in film/film, film/taffeta
(PP) and film/kevlar taffeta (PW) styles.

DIAX-OS-HMT
is found on leading yachts in some of the world’s toughest races. In applications
where ultimate efficiency is essential, but durability can simply not
be sacrificed, these fabrics excel. As offshore racing yachts become more
extreme so the sailcloth technology needed has advanced. Based on our
DIAX-HMT styles, OS products include a double Spectra Diax scrim to provide
an unrivalled level of performance and durability.
HM Twaron Fibre Technology
Born out of the quest for ultimate efficiency
these complex HMT constructions have been developed using several component fibres. We have specifically
selected High Modulus Twaron because it is the leading edge yarn for high performance laminate
construction. This is backed by independent tests which have shown that HMT has the edge in terms
of higher modulus, improved flex strength and increased durability, over other yarns specifically
developed for sailcloth manufacture.
:Carbon
This revolutionary range of laminates uses unique scrim forming technology to harness the strength of carbon fibre. An exhaustive development program has created a laminate that delivers lower stretch and a significantly longer competitive life then aramid equivalents.
Extra durability is provided by the unique Carbon fill supported by tough aramid fibres. A grey additive is included in the construction that reduces UV degradation.
As with all DIAX products a unique 45 degree scrim provides bias strength. With DIAX-CFG a Spectra DIAX is used to stabilise and lock together carbon fibre.
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 or High
Modulus Twaron primary yarns, with and without durable taffetas for use in a variety of applications.

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