A new pair of swimming goggles weighs 12-15% less than conventional models thanks to the use of carbon-fibre reinforced polyamide in the frames, claims the manufacturer.
The frames of the goggles are moulded from a fibre-reinforced PA compound from Teknor Apex and manufactured by Blue Fuzion.
Neil McConnochie, managing director of Hong Kong-based Blue Fuzion, says the goggles are the first to be made using polyamide rather than polycarbonate.
“Polycarbonate not only weighs more but is nowhere near as strong as the carbon fibre reinforced polyamide,” he said. “The added strength enables us to reduce the thickness of the frame, especially in the torsion points where other components of the goggle come together, such as the nose bridge and the strap.”
Teknor Apex developed the polyamide compound – Beetle 66CF4 – especially for the goggle application. The lenses are made of polycarbonate, while thermoplastic elastomer flanges on the eyecups ensure a secure fit against the face.