The production of the outer shell for X-lite helmets is based on the use of multi-axial hybrid fabrics (carbon-glass and aramid-glass) which are cut in order to produce over 100 reinforcement pieces which form the base of the layers of the shell, or rather of the manual combining of the aforementioned pieces according to pre-established “recipes”, which differ based on the homologation required, the model and the size of the product. This is followed by the moulding of the shell: a thermosetting resin is poured into the layered mould and, via pressure from a countermould, is hardened, absorbing and binding the fabrics. After this stage, the process continues with the various activities of finishing of the shell, beginning with cutting using a numerically-controlled water jet. The clean cutting of the shell takes place at high pressure, approximately 4,000 bar: during this stage, openings are cut, for example, for the visor and the air intakes. The cycle ends with further activities for finishing: automatic sanding by robot, followed by visual checks and manual finishing to render the surface of the shell even, thus preparing it for painting. The constant commitment of the company to the search for materials and processes which ensure ever-improved performance for the products has, over the last few years, led to the creation of the “Ultra Carbon” line: products which are characterised by reduced weight for the same size and mechanical performance, as well as for an exclusive look, thanks to the “visible” fibres. The development of this line therefore requires the use of special fabrics, as well as extreme manual care in the aforementioned finishing stages for the shell.

The production of the outer shell for Nolan and Grex brand helmets occurs trough LEXAN™* polycarbonate injection moulding process. LEXAN™* is a material ensuring, for the same shape, thickness and process, higher performance compared to ABS, the raw material used for the moulding of almost all motorbike helmets on the market. The polycarbonate provides superior performance in both mechanical and thermal terms: during impact resistance tests, the polycarbonate obtained results of 900/1000 J/m, compared to the maximum results of 550/600 J/m for ABS. Furthermore, the thermal range of the polycarbonate is between -30°C to +120°C compared to a range of -20°C to +50°C for ABS. At 80°C (the temperature that the helmet may be required to endure in the summer, closed in a pannier), the polycarbonate remains stable, while ABS undergoes deformation; at 100°C, LEXAN™* still maintains its dimensional stability, while ABS deforms completely. The same test carried out at -20°C shows how LEXAN™* does not suffer cracks at harsh temperatures, while ABS becomes very fragile.