Choosing autoclave 145 psi or 250 psi?

General Composites Discussions Composites Talk
#1

I want to choose one autoclave for high quality composite component. Is there much different between using 145 psi(10 bar) and 250 psi(17 bar)? Any suggestion?

Thanks~

#2

It depends what you are processing: for thermosets I imagine that 17 bar isnt necessary and 10 bar is more than sufficient. For thermoplastics, 17 bar may be needed depending on the polymer

#3

Never had a need to ho over 90 psi in last 25 years doing f1 and very high end automotive 125 to 180 deg thermo set pre pregs
You can get a VERY good Finnish from just 30psi