Composites Faq: Read First!

As the forums become more and more popular I anticipate many of the same questions again and again. This thread has been created to answer them here and now. If someone asks one of those question refer them here.

Q: Is it possible to produce composite parts without a vacuum/autoclave/press?
A: Yes but you will run into a host of issues and in general your composite will be too resin heavy and will be of poor quality. Composite manufacturing requires it’s own set of tools, just like every other material. Getting the right tools will make the job easier and produce better quality results

Q: Can I use any random plastic bag as bagging material?
A: Maybe, but real vacuum film is treated well so it won’t have any leaks

Q: Can I make composites cheaply?
A: You can make moderately priced composites AFTER you have spent at least a few hundred dollars buying the right tools. If this is your first time it won’t be cheap, especially because you’re likely going to make mistakes.

If you’ve got any more of these questions with obvious answers post them here!

I’m new to composites and I would like to make a part, what should I do?
Learn vacuum bagging. It’s one of the simplest methods of composite manufacturing and it is very forgiving. A tutorial for vacuum bagging will be created soon.

Can I use prepreg? I’ve read it’s better, lighter etc.
Yes when prepreg is laid up with the correct tools and necessary skill level it produces excellent parts. However it’s more expensive to obtain, more difficult to store, requires a controlled oven and special tooling.

Can I manufacture by cutting these corners?
Trust me on this one, cutting corners is going to catch up with you. If you’re going to make one or two parts you might get away with it. However if you’re consistently trying to make something good it’s better to get the right equipment.