Commercial composites for large markets such as automotive components, boats, consumer goods and corrosion-resistant industrial parts are often made from non-continuous, random glass fibers or non-oriented fiber forms. Components made with this process tend to be heavy and have the same strengths throughout the product. These products look good and are quite stiff but will not endure the rigors of the high performance applications.

Advanced composites, initially developed for the military aerospace market, offer performance superior to that of conventional structural metals, and now find applications in communications satellites, aircraft, sporting goods, transportation, heavy industry and in the energy sector. High performance composites derive their structural properties from continuous, oriented high-strength fiber reinforcement, most commonly carbon, aramid or glass. All Hi Per Flex panels are constructed from advanced, high performance composites with pre-impregnated fiberglass and carbon fiber.  We selected the pre-preg products due to superior strength and controllability during manufacturing.  Pre-preg materials deliver a thin, very strong product with advantages in strength properties that conventional wet lay construction cannot deliver.

Hi Per Flex designs all panel systems around the car and the forces that act upon the car during a racing event. The panel needs to be strong enough to handle high speed and  again flexible to absorb a collision. We also consider how the panel is mounted to the car. Again, the panel must have the strength to hold fasteners and render the same flexibility and other strength properties without sacrificing weight. When we compare our panel designs to industry standards for metals, our composite panels weigh an average of 10% less and 4-5 times stronger than the common aluminum found on most dirt track race cars. Hi Per Flex uses a proprietary design in panel construction that will not be seen in other uses such as aircraft construction.  Our panels are designed to use a different aspect of fiberglass, flexibility. They are designed to bend when hit and absorb that shock hundreds of times.  We have several customers that have used the same panels for two, or even three years with no problems.

FAQ

What colors can I get?
We are not able to add color to our products.  The resin system and processes that we use are not compatible with colorization additives.  Our products must either be painted or covered with vinyl of your choosing and is discussed in the Installation Guide.

How long do I have to wait for the panels?
Normally we should finish your order in 1 to 2.5 weeks.  We do not carry an inventory as all parts are custom built to fit your car.  We build on a first come, first serve basis which could put your order behind many others or place you at the top of the list.

Why do you need measurements?
Every car is a little different.  Even though we have standardized panels (for cost purposes), we custom build each panel to fit your car using your measurements.  We are able to design in specific areas that need to be reinforced according to your cars needs.

How do I install the panels?
Hi Per Flex panels are direct replacements of your aluminum panels.  They are installed by rivets or nuts & bolts, the same as you have done in the past.  We do offer some preferred installations that are explained in the Installation Guide.    

What kind of special tools do I need?
None, actually.  All fiberglass products are very abrasive to cutting tools.  We recommend using good tools that are industry standards instead of cheap, inferior products.  A rotary cutting/grinding tool such as a Dremel MotoTool, fitted with a 1” diamond cutting disk, will make all cutting and trimming tasks very easy.  We use air driven, right angle die grinders of the 20,000 RPM type with a one inch diamond cutting wheel for all trimming…very fast and smooth.  Some of our customers will use a good pair of snips which will produce good cuts if patience is used.

Why are the panels so expensive?
We use epoxy based, pre-impregnated composite materials which are expensive.  The construction process is quite labor intensive and all the secondary materials that are required are also expensive.  Every part is cured under extreme heat for several hours, which is the only automated process we currently use, before it is inspected and released for use.

I race under a tight budget & can’t afford fancy stuff.
Hi Per Flex panels are perfect for the low budget racer.  How many race teams only budget one body for the season?  Quite a few, but what do they look like at the end of the season?  Most resemble a pop can that has been kicked around for weeks.  Is that what your sponsors want to see?  Hi Per Flex panels will keep your car looking straight all season, less maintenance than aluminum panels and possible multi season use.  Quite a few of our customers have used the same panels for two and three years…talk about saving money!! 

Do you sponsor anyone?
Yes, we will sponsor up to three race teams each year.  We review many proposals throughout the season and will make our selections at the end of November for the upcoming season.  We are a product sponsor only. 

How do I place an order?
All orders are placed over the phone.   Having all the dimensions available when you call will help save time later on.  There are times when we will need to send you measurement sheets for items such as hoods and other complex parts.  An invoice will be created within 24 hours and sent to you.  As soon as we receive payment, you will then be placed on the build schedule.  We do not accept credit cards.  Payments can be made by money order, bank draft or personal check. 

What about shipping?
Over 90% of our items are shipped FedEx Ground, unless the customer makes other arrangements.  Shipping large items is quite expensive.  The average shipping & handling cost for a set of Late Model quarter panels is about $105.00 when shipped to a business address.  Items shipped to a residential address are more expensive.  All shipping companies have recently increased their shipping costs due primarily to fuel surcharges.  These increases have almost doubled for some companies.  Shipping & handling costs will be included on your invoice based on the current shipping fees.