Hello and a question

First Stop Introductions
#1

Hi All,

I am really new to composites and have just made my first mould and attempted to undertake a resin infusion. I am from England and interested in learning the skill of carbon fiber moulding.

After struggling to cut out the correct shape from the raw carbon fiber, I must get a decent set of shears, I laid it all up as per a tutorial. Any tips on cutting it out so that it doesn’t fray appart:mad:

I de-moulded today and my part looks like it has too much resin or that it wasn’t held down properly. My vacuum was good and the bag was big enough to get down into the contours.

I have attached a picture in the hope that someone will be able to tell me what I have done wrong.

Thanks,

Henry

#2

Welcome to the forum. Looks like you had several problems to say the least. For starters, your material is bridging. You need to be sure that when laminating all the materials stay where they should. Many use spray adhesive, or other methods of adhering plies before vacuum. Sometimes you will also need to cut materials strategically to reduce the risk . Additionally, when vacuum bagging, bring it to full vacuum very slowly. Massage and press the material in to the mould shape to be sure it doesnt bridge. Last comment is you definitely have leaks in your bag. You should have perfect vacuum integrity. Best to use a digital absolute pressure gauge (such as the GDH200-14)to confirm this. You would want at least a 0mbar drop in 5-10mins. These are just the obvious problems I see here. Im sure you have another 10. Just keep practicing, and make sure to use the correct materials, and proper procedure and you’ll get it right. Good luck!

#3

Hi
Where are you in Lanacashire ? I have a composite training centre in Lancashire and would be more than happy to give you a few pointers if you would like to drop in or over the phone.
Regards Chris

#4

Hi Chris,

I am from near Clitheroe. Thank you for the offer I would appreciate a few pointers.

Can I ask how you know that there wasn’t a perfect vacuum? What are the telltale signs and the signs of bridging.

Thanks,

Henry

#5

Hi Henry
Send me an email with your number and I will call you back.