Section 3

Properties of EXTREN®

SECTION 3

PROPERTIES OF EXTREN®

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Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

All Rights Reserved 3-1 Rev.1014
 Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

PROPERTIES OF EXTREN®
INTRODUCTION
The properties in this manual are for product as produced by Strongwell and the data sheets in this
section present the minimum ultimate values from testing in conformance to ASTM procedures.
These values are obtained from coupons machined from EXTREN® structural shapes and function
as a proof test for the EXTREN® composite. Descriptions of the ASTM test procedures are found at
the end of this section.
Strongwell verifies the full section bending Modulus of Elasticity using a simple beam concept at
the start of each production run. The empirically determined EXTREN® structural design equations
presented in later sections will be a function of the Modulus of Elasticity.
The designer must consider environmental factors in designing for the actual application. These
factors include elevated temperature and corrosive chemicals.
TEMPERATURE EFFECTS
The approximate retention of mechanical properties at elevated temperatures are:
EXTREN®
Series 500/525 Series 625
100 F
o
85% 90%
125oF 70% 85%
Ultimate Stress 150oF 50% 80%
175oF not recommended 75%
200 F
o
not recommended 50%
>200oF not recommended not recommended
100oF 100% 100%
125oF 90% 95%
Modulus of Elasticity 150oF 85% 90%
175oF not recommended 88%
200oF not recommended 85%
>200oF not recommended not recommended
These recommendations are based on the normal EXTREN® proprietary resin system. Strongwell
routinely processes other resin systems to achieve higher temperature ratings for specific applications.
CORROSION EFFECTS
As a general rule, the isophthalic polyester resin used in EXTREN® Series 500/525 is resistant to
most acidic attacks while the vinyl ester resin in EXTREN® Series 625 is resistant to acids and bases.
The effect of corrosive chemicals is temperature dependent with elevated temperature increasing the
corrosion activity. A corrosion guide has been included in this manual and a Strongwell salesperson
can respond to chemicals not listed in this guide.
Strongwell incorporates a synthetic veil on the surface of all EXTREN® structural shapes which causes
a resin rich layer which enhances corrosion protection.
UV (ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION) EFFECTS
UV is a sunlight produced environmental attack on FRP composites. The synthetic surfacing veil also
aids in protecting the composite from UV degradation, the effect of which is sometimes referred to as
"fiber blooming". EXTREN® also contains a UV inhibitor.
There is a large variation in the degree of fading from UV degradation based on the color selected.
It should be noted that the surfacing veil, while not preventing color fading, serves to protect the
composite from any mechanical property degradation potentially caused by UV. Coating with materials
such as UV stabilized polyurethane based paints are very effective in maintaining the color and offer
the optimum long-term protection from UV attack.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

Rev.1014 3-2 All Rights Reserved
Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

SERIES 500/525/625 STRUCTURAL SHAPES

ULTIMATE COUPON PROPERTIES
Below are the test results for the minimum ultimate coupon properties of EXTREN® structural
shapes as per the referenced ASTM procedures. The properties of plate as well as thermal cure
rod and bar are found elsewhere in this section. Designers should refer to Section 8 — FLEXURAL
MEMBERS and Section 9 — COMPRESSION MEMBERS for the recommended design equations
for EXTREN®. The actual geometry and application of the structural shape will determine its
ultimate usability. Additionally, WF / I-Beam ASTM properties may vary due to location in the part
but the modulus of elasticity will not be affected.

ASTM SERIES SERIES

PROPERTY TEST UNITS 500/525 625
MECHANICAL
Tensile Stress, LW D638 psi 30,000 30,000
Tensile Stress, CW D638 psi 7,000 7,000
Tensile Modulus, LW D638 106 psi 2.5 2.6
Tensile Modulus, CW D638 106 psi 0.8 0.8
Compressive Stress, LW D695 psi 30,000 30,000
Compressive Stress, CW D695 psi 15,000 16,000
Compressive Modulus, LW D695 106 psi 2.5 2.6
Compressive Modulus CW D695 106 psi 0.8 0.8
Flexural Stress, LW D790 psi 30,000 30,000
Flexural Stress, CW D790 psi 10,000 10,000
Flexural Modulus, LW D790 106 psi 1.6 1.6
Flexural Modulus, CW D790 106 psi 0.8 0.8
Modulus of Elasticity  full section 106 psi 2.6 2.8
Modulus of Elasticity full section 106 psi 2.5 2.5
(W and I Shapes > 4") 
Shear Modulus, LW m — 106 psi 0.425 0.425
Short Beam Shear, LW  D2344 psi 4,500 4,500
Ultimate Bearing Stress, LW D953 psi 30,000 30,000
Poisson's Ratio, LW D3039 in/in 0.33 0.33
Notched Izod Impact, LW D256 ft-lbs/in 25 25
Notched Izod Impact, CW D256 ft-lbs/in 4 4
PHYSICAL
Barcol Hardness D2583 — 45 45
24 hr Water Absorption D570 % Max 0.6 0.6
Density D792 lbs/in3 .062-.070 .062-.070
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion, LW  D696 10-6 in/in/oF 7 7
Thermal Conductivity  C177 BTU-in/ft2/hr/oF 4 4
ELECTRICAL
Arc Resistance, LW  D495 seconds 120 120
Dielectric Strength, LW  D149 KV/in 35 35
Dielectric Strength, PF  D149 volts/mil 200 200

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

All Rights Reserved 3-3 Rev.1014
 Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

PROPERTY TEST VALUE

FLAMMABILITY
(Only Series 525 and 625)
Flammability Classification (1/8") UL 94 VO
Tunnel Test ASTM E84 25 Max
NBS Smoke Chamber ASTM E662 650-700 (Typical)
Flammability ASTM D635 Self Extinguishing
UL Thermal Index Generic 130oC
British Fire Test BS 476-7 Class 1
LW — lengthwise
CW — crosswise
PF — perpendicular to laminate face

NOTES:
 Refer to Section 9 — COMPRESSION MEMBERS for the recommended allowable
stresses for EXTREN® columns.
 Refer to Section 8 — FLEXURAL MEMBERS for the recommended allowable stresses
for EXTREN® beams. LW results are for the flange only.
 This value is determined from full section simple beam bending of EXTREN® structural
shapes and will be used in Sections 8 and 9 for design.

 The Shear Modulus value has been determined from tests with full sections of EXTREN®
structural shapes. Less precise values are occasionally estimated for pultrusion by using
an equation for isotropic materials, G=E/[2(1 + v)]. For example, if EXTREN® pultrusions
are assumed to be isotropic with a Poisson's Ratio (v) of 0.33 and a Modulus of Elasticity
of 2.6 x 106 psi, then G = 977,000 psi, which exceeds the listed tested value. EXTREN®
shapes are mat/roving composites and anisotropic.
 Strongwell incorporates a synthetic surfacing veil routinely on the surface of all EXTREN®
structural shapes. This has the effect of lowering the measured Barcol Hardness and
does not reflect an absence of cure. Other additives incorporated into the composite for
corrosion protection and surface improvements may also reduce Barcol Hardness to a
typical value of 45. A surface unprotected by a surfacing veil without additives would have
a minimum value of 50.
 Measured as a percentage maximum by weight.
 Span to depth ratio of 3:1; EXTREN® angles will have a minimum value of 4000 psi and
the I/W shapes are tested in the web.
 Typical values.
 This is a typical value which varies with composite thickness.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

Rev.1014 3-4 All Rights Reserved
Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

THERMAL CURE ROD AND BAR

ULTIMATE COUPON PROPERTIES
Below are the test results for the minimum ultimate coupon properties of thermal cure rod and bar
as per the referenced ASTM procedures. Rod and bar stock contain longitudinal reinforcements
only – no mat. Coupon testing provides a proof test for the composite, but the actual geometry
and application of the structural shape will determine its ultimate usability.

THERMAL
ASTM CURE
PROPERTY TEST UNITS CLEAR
MECHANICAL
Tensile Stress, LW D3916 psi 100,000
Tensile Modulus, LW D3916 106 psi 6.0
Compressive Stress, Axial, LW D695 psi 60,000
Flexural Stress, LW D790 psi 100,000
Flexural Modulus, LW D790 106 psi 6.0
Notched Izod Impact, LW D256 ft-lbs/in 40
Short Beam Shear, LW D4475 psi 5,500
PHYSICAL
Barcol Hardness D2583 — 50
24 hr. Water Absorption  D570 % Max 0.25
Density D792 lbs/in3 .072-.076
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion D696 10-6 in/in/oF 5
ELECTRICAL
Dielectric Strength, LW  D149 KV/in 35
LW ­— lengthwise or parallel to the roving
NOTE: All thermal cure rod and bar are not normally produced with a fire retardant resin. Thermal
cure rod and bar were not designed to be machined. Machining may cause splintering or other
issues due to the lack fo off-axis reinforcements.

 Measured as a percentage maximum by weight.

 Typical values.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

All Rights Reserved 3-5 Rev.1014
 Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

SERIES 500/525 PLATE

ULTIMATE COUPON PROPERTIES
Below are the test results for the minimum ultimate coupon properties of EXTREN® Series
500/525 plate as per the referenced ASTM procedures. Designers should refer to Section 10
— PLATE for the recommended design equations for EXTREN®. The actual geometry and
application of the plate will determine its ultimate usability.
ASTM THICKNESS
PROPERTY TEST UNITS 1/8" 3/16"-3/8" 1/2"-1"
MECHANICAL
Tensile Stress, LW D638 psi 20,000 20,000 20,000
Tensile Stress, CW D638 psi 7,500 10,000 10,000
Tensile Modulus, LW D638 106 psi 1.8 1.8 1.8
Tensile Modulus, CW D638 106 psi 0.7 0.9 1.0
Compressive Stress, Edgewise, LW D695 psi 24,000 24,000 24,000
Compressive Stress, Edgewise, CW D695 psi 15,500 16,500 20,000
Compressive Modulus, Edgewise, LW D695 106 psi 1.8 1.8 1.8
Compressive Modulus, Edgewise, CW D695 106 psi 0.7 0.9 1.0
Flexural Stress, Flatwise, LW D790 psi 24,000 24,000 24,000
Flexural Stress, Flatwise, CW D790 psi 10,000 13,000 17,000
Flexural Modulus, Flatwise, LW D790 106 psi 1.1 1.1 1.4
Flexural Modulus, Flatwise, CW D790 106 psi 0.8 0.8 1.3
Ultimate Bearing Stress, LW D953 psi 32,000 32,000 32,000
Poisson's Ratio, LW  D3039 in/in 0.31 0.31 0.31
Poisson's Ratio, CW  D3039 in/in 0.29 0.29 0.29
Notched Izod Impact, LW D256 ft-lbs/in 15 10 10
Notched Izod Impact, CW D256 ft-lbs/in 5 5 5
PHYSICAL
Barcol Hardness D2583 — 40 40 40
24 hr. Water Absorption  D570 % Max 0.6 0.6 0.6
Density D792 lbs/in3 .060-.068 .060-.068 .060-.068
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion  D696 10-6in/in/oF 8 8 8
ELECTRICAL
Dielectric Strength, LW  D149 KV/in 35 35 35
Dielectric Strength, PF  D149 volts/mil 200 N.T. N.T.
LW — lengthwise
CW — crosswise
PF — perpendicular to the laminate face
N.T. — not tested
NOTES:
 Measured as a percentage maximum by weight.
 This is a typical value which varies with composite thickness.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

Rev.1014 3-6 All Rights Reserved
Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

SERIES 625 PLATE

ULTIMATE COUPON PROPERTIES
Below are the test results for the minimum ultimate coupon properties of EXTREN® Series 625
plate as per the referenced ASTM procedures. Designers should refer to Section 10 — PLATE
for the recommended design equations for EXTREN®. The actual geometry and application of
the plate will determine its ultimate usability.
ASTM THICKNESS
PROPERTY TEST UNITS 1/8" 3/16"-1/4" 3/8"-1"
MECHANICAL
Tensile Stress, LW D638 psi 20,000 20,000 20,000
Tensile Stress, CW D638 psi 7,500 10,000 10,000
Tensile Modulus, LW D638 106 psi 1.8 1.8 1.8
Tensile Modulus, CW D638 106 psi 1.0 1.0 1.0
Compressive Stress, Edgewise, LW D695 psi 24,000 24,000 24,000
Compressive Stress, Edgewise, CW D695 psi 16,500 17,500 17,500
Compressive Modulus, Edgewise, LW D695 106 psi 1.8 1.8 1.8
Compressive Modulus, Edgewise, CW D695 106 psi 1.0 1.0 1.0
Flexural Stress, Flatwise, LW D790 psi 24,000 24,000 24,000
Flexural Stress, Flatwise, CW D790 psi 10,000 13,000 17,000
Flexural Modulus, Flatwise, LW D790 106 psi 1.1 1.1 1.4
Flexural Modulus, Flatwise, CW D790 106 psi 0.8 0.9 1.3
Ultimate Bearing Stress, LW D953 psi 32,000 32,000 32,000
Poisson's Ratio, LW  D3039 in/in 0.32 0.32 0.32
Poisson's Ratio, CW  D3039 in/in 0.24 0.24 0.24
Notched Izod Impact, LW D256 ft-lbs/in 15 10 10
Notched Izod Impact, CW D256 ft-lbs/in 5 5 5
PHYSICAL
Barcol Hardness D2583 — 40 40 40
24 hr. Water Absorption  D570 % Max 0.6 0.6 0.6
Density D792 lbs/in3 .060-.068 .060-.068 .060-.068
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion  D696 10-6in/in/oF 8 8 8
ELECTRICAL
Dielectric Strength, LW  D149 KV/in 35 35 35
Dielectric Strength, PF  D149 volts/mil 250 N.T. N.T.
LW — lengthwise
CW — crosswise
PF — perpendicular to the laminate face
N.T. — not tested
NOTES:
 Measured as a percentage maximum by weight.
 This is a typical value which varies with composite thickness.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

All Rights Reserved 3-7 Rev.1014
 Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

DESCRIPTION OF TESTS FOR EXTREN®

TEST DESCRIPTION
TENSILE STRENGTH The tensile strength is determined by pulling ends of a test
(ASTM D638) specimen until failure. The tensile modulus can be calculated
by measuring the ratio of stress and strain. When the tensile
strength is measured in the longitudinal direction, as a first
approximation, it is an indication of relative roving content. For
example, an all roving thermal cure rod has a higher tensile
strength than the EXTREN® structural shapes which are a
combination of roving and continuous strand mat.
FLEXURAL PROPERTIES The flexural strength is determined by placing a test specimen
(ASTM D790) between two supports and applying a load to the center.
ASTM D790 specifies required span to depth ratios for the
test specimen. Flexural tests on coupon samples are often
used to determine the effects of environmental conditions
such as temperature and corrosive agents.

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH The ultimate compressive strength of a composite is a force

(ASTM D695) required to rupture the composite when a load is applied
such that the specimen is crushed. The compressive test is
an excellent indication of the resin matrix to reinforcement
bond and has been adopted by the ANSI A14.5 specification
for fiberglass rail as the primary physical property audit.
IZOD IMPACT The Izod impact is determined by subjecting a specimen to
(ASTM D256) a pendulum-type collision; the specimen can be notched or
unnotched. The energy required to rupture the specimen due
to the collision caused by the swinging pendulum is used to
calculate the Izod impact strength.
BEARING STRESS This test specimen consists of a flat strip with a hole machined
(ASTM D953) in one end as specified by the ASTM procedure. The testing
consists of clamping the end without the hole and attempting
to tear or rupture the hole in the specimen. The load required
to rupture the hole is used to determine the bearing stress.

MODULUS OF ELASTICITY This parameter is determined by loading a prescribed length

of the full shape (not a coupon) with a support at each end and
applying a center load. From the measured deflection and the
known load and span, the bending modulus of elasticity can
be determined once the shear deflection effects are identified.
This is a more reliable estimate of the field performance in
beam bending situation than the coupon properties.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

Rev.1014 3-8 All Rights Reserved
Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

DESCRIPTION OF TESTS FOR EXTREN®

BARCOL HARDNESS The barcol hardness is a measure of the resistance of the surface
(ASTM D2583) of a test specimen to penetration by a needle probe which is spring
driven. The barcol hardness value is generally an average of
multiple measurements on the same part and is an approximate
measure of the composite's completeness of cure.
WATER ABSORPTION In this test, the specimens are immersed in water for a period
(ASTM D570) of 24 hours and the change in weight is measured. This test
has utility in electrical and corrosive applications.
DENSITY The density is the ratio of the mass (weight) of a specimen to
(ASTM D792) the volume of the specimen. This parameter is important in
determining the ultimate weight of the finished product.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY The ratio of the density of a composite to the density of
(ASTM D792) water.

ARC RESISTANCE This test is performed by placing two probes on a test

(ASTM D495) specimen at a distance of 1/4". A high voltage, low current,
arc is passed between the probes with a specified on/off cycle
for this arc. The time taken for the arc to completely burn a
path through the composite is measured.
DIELECTRIC STRENGTH In this electrical test, the sample is placed between
(ASTM D149) electrodes with the electrodes and the sample immersed in
non-conducting oil to prevent a false failure signal. Failure
occurs when the voltage is sufficient to cause the current to
discharge through the composite. This test is occasionally
performed after conditioning the test specimen with water at
elevated temperatures.
WEATHERING The QUV Weatherometer applies alternating cycles of
QUV WEATHEROMETER water, high temperature, humidity and ultraviolet exposure
(ASTM G53) to measure the weatherability of a given composite and/or
additive. This test is primarily comparative in nature between
composites and/or formulations. The geographic location of
the composite will determine its actual weatherability.
UL 94 EXTREN® Series 525 and Series 625 conform to UL 94
testing with a VO Rating. In the UL 94 test, a vertically clamped
sample is subjected to a fame from a Bunsen burner.
TUNNEL TEST In the 25 foot tunnel test, a smoke generation value and the
(ASTM E84) rate of flame spread are determined. This test has been the
standard for years in measuring flammability and smoke
generation.
NBS SMOKE CHAMBER This test requires a much smaller test specimen and
(ASTM E662) essentially places this specimen in the bottom of a chamber
and measures the smoke that is generated to an optical
detector at the top of the chamber.
FLAMMABILITY This is a less severe flammability test in which the specimen
(ASTM D635) is held horizontally with one end subjected to a flame for 30
seconds.
Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation
All Rights Reserved 3-9 Rev.1014
 Section 3
Properties of EXTREN®

SPECIFICATION FOR
EXTREN FIBERGLASS REINFORCED POLYMER (FRP)
®

SCOPE
This specification covers EXTREN® fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) wide flange shapes,
I-shapes, channels, angles, tubing, rod, bar, flat sheet and special shapes produced by Strongwell,
Bristol, Virginia, and its divisions.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
All structural shapes shall be EXTREN® FRP Series (select one: 500, 525 or 625) produced
using the pultrusion process.
All rod and bar shall be Strongwell FRP thermal cure rod and bar produced using the pultrusion
process.
DESIGN
Selection of structural shapes for use under compressive or flexural load to be in accordance
with load tables provided in the Strongwell Design Manual.
TOLERANCES
The tolerance for a structural shape supplied to this specification shall be within the limits given
in Section 5 - TOLERANCES of the Strongwell Design Manual.
FABRICATION AND HANDLING
1) Cut edges and holes can be sealed with a resin compatible with the resin matrix used in
the structural shape if there is concern about the environment in which the shape will be
used.
2) The fabricator and contractor shall exercise precautions necessary to protect the fiberglass
pultruded structural shapes from abuse to prevent breakage, nicks, gouges, etc. during
fabrication, handling and installation.
3) Structural shapes shall be fabricated and assembled as indicated on the design drawings
and in accordance with Strongwell's EXTREN® Fabrication & Repair Manual.
NOTE:
See Section 20 — Specifications for Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer Products and
Fabrications.

Copyright © 2014 Strongwell Corporation

Rev.1014 3-10 All Rights Reserved