SHD Prepreg composite material
Epoxy prepreg

SFX740-LS

A surface film with an integrated copper mesh layer for lightning strike protection
Let’s Discuss your application needs

Key Features & Benefits

Key Feature Lightning strike protection
Application Aerospace and defence applications
Initial Cure Temp 65°C- 120°C
Initial Cure Time Consult Data Sheet Hours
Post Cure Option no
Outlife 21 days at 20°C
TG Onset* 130°C -DMA
TG Peak* 140°C -DMA
Toughened No
Cure Oven
Availability Usa

SFX740-LS incorporates an integrated copper mesh layer to provide lightning strike protection with a lightweight carrier ply for conformability, making the process of applying CuMesh simple to maintain the cosmetic and processing advantages of the range.

Developed for aerospace and advanced air mobility applications, SFX740-LS combines surfacing and lightning strike protection within a single integrated material surfacing system.

Part of SHD's SFX740 range of epoxy surfacing films delivering outstanding low-defect surface quality straight out of the mould.

Why choose this material

SFX740-LS is an easy-to-use surface film providing lightning strike protection for your application.

The SFX740 range replicates the mould details perfectly once demoulded. Tailored surface tack makes placement in the mould simple and robust, and the base-chemistry is formulated such that the three new surface films work together with all SHD’s VTC and MTC epoxy prepreg systems.

Supplied with SHD's renowned service, including:

  • Short two-week lead times and low MOQs

  • Exceptional product quality

  • First class technical support

  • Excellent customer service

  • The same manufacturing equipment and processes across all sites

Advanced composite solutions for aerospace (passenger plane seating) Jet plane

Recommended markets

Aerospace Defence

Aerospace

Advanced composites specified across major commercial aircraft today
Find out more

Defence

SHD Composites is actively working on many defence programs with customers around the world
Find out more

Technical Guidance Information

01

Storage and Out Life

This material should be kept frozen at -18°C (0°F). It must be kept sealed in a polythene bag which must not be opened until fully thawed to room temperature. If the material is not fully used, then the material must be resealed in the polythene bag to prevent moisture absorption.

02

Health and Safety

This material contains epoxy resin, which can cause allergic reactions with skin contact. Repeated or prolonged skin contact must be avoided. Please refer to the product Safety Data Sheet before using this material. The following precautions must be taken when using epoxy surfacing films:

  • Overalls must be worn

  • Impervious gloves must be worn

  • Curing schedule is meant to be as a guide only and is subject to local conditions

  • To avoid exotherm, particular care must be taken with thick laminates

  • Ramp rates must not exceed 3.0°C (5.4°F)/min during initial cure and 0.3°C (0.5°F)/min during post cure

Contact us

Talk to us about your composite application

Fill in this short contact form and a member of staff will be in touch as soon as possible.

More SHD products

Epoxy prepreg

APS75
Autoclave Panel System

Epoxy prepreg

OPS75
Oven Panel System

Epoxy prepreg

SFX740-HF
A high-build composite solution engineered to further suppress fibre print-through

Epoxy prepreg

SFX740-LW
Lightweight surface film

Case Studies

Case Studies

SHD’s Innovative Solutions Drive Lightweight, Low-CO₂ Performance in the Shell Triple 10 Challenge Vehicle

Case Studies

Eclipse-Harp

USA

SHD Launches MTC521FR — The Clear Choice for Flame-Retardant Cosmetic Components

Case Studies

'Sustainability Showcase Car' Collaboration Highlight: CompPair

Case Studies

'Sustainability Showcase Car' Collaboration Highlight: Lineat

Case Studies

SHD Composite Materials exhibit at JEC with Sustainability Showcase Car
See all case studies

Frequently Asked Questions

01

What surface film is suitable for lightning strike protection?

SFX740-LS includes an integrated copper mesh layer designed to provide lightning strike protection. It combines this protection with a high-quality surface finish, making it particularly suitable for aerospace and advanced air mobility applications. 

02

Can lightning strike protection be added without a separate copper mesh layer?

Yes. SFX740-LS combines copper mesh and surface film in one material. This simplifies application and removes the need to handle the lightning strike layer separately during lay-up. 

03

Can SFX740-LS be processed without an autoclave?

Yes. SFX740-LS is designed for out-of-autoclave processing and also offers low-temperature cure options, giving manufacturers more flexibility while still achieving a high-quality finished surface. 

04

Is SFX740-LS suitable for aircraft and eVTOL composite parts?

Yes. SFX740-LS was developed specifically for aerospace and advanced air mobility applications where both surface quality and lightning strike protection are important. 

05

Can SFX740-LS reduce sanding and finishing after moulding?

Yes. The SFX740 range is designed to create a high-quality surface straight from the mould. Depending on the application, parts may need little or no post-processing before painting or final use. 

Accreditations

Ready to discuss your project?

Leave your details and we will contact you ASAP

Request a callback