I've noticed something different that Trumpeter has done with their included PE. At least it is present in the larger flat superstructure pieces in their 1/700 QE and Warspite kits. This is etching elongated open slots along the fold lines. Apparently a designer at Trumpeter thought it would make bending the parts easier - so it does, but, when bent, it leaves open gaps (sort of self-defeating) along corners and the bend lines which are difficult to fill without damaging adjacent etched details on the same piece. Why open slots? The old etched line used by other PE manufacturers works just as well, and no annoying corner gaps to fill.

Write to the Trumpeter complaints dept.

Trumpeter do seem to be doing some experimentation with PE. The PE supplied with their 1/200 Bismark was abysmal to use, spaghetti soft. The PE supplied with the Hornet is a big improvement.
Just my 2 (Euro) cents worth............

Every time you think Trumpeter has produced a better model, they go and pull a different boner!

IMHO they are progressing rapidly. Great improvements per model and a choice of subjects that some of the "established" model producers can only have nasty itchy scratchy dreams of.
Once again just my 2 cents worth, i have grown to be quite fond of these Chinese gentleman's offerings,
cheers,