Help me get started

General Composites Discussions Composites Talk
#1

Ok…I’ve read pretty much every post. I’ve done vacuum bagging before in shop class when I was in high school. Things have advanced a bit since then. I’m putting together a list of things I’ll need to start producing quality infused products.

First I’m looking at the Robinair 15600. They go on ebay for about $227.00 new. Anyplace better priced?

Second: Resin trap. The one I’m looking at using is this one http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93119. Decent? Or should I just drop the coin for the one from airtech?

I’m probably going to go through airtech to buy the bags(strechlon 200), tape(at-200y), and flow media(resinflow 60). I’ve heard their name recommended many times for the strechlon 200 series bags and the resinflow 60 flow media.

I’m not sure on peel-ply? Airtech again?

The polyethylene lines and spiral wrap stuff I have sourced locally for very cheap.

I’m also looking at going with the epoxy resin from jgreer.com.

I’ve already got all the regular stuff to make the molds and such.

So…give me an idea of my game plan so far and anything you’d change or recommend.

Thanks!

#2

You got it going (besides the mold releases, mold making stuff…) and the Harbor F/Tools is a good choice or find a paint pressure pot at a garage sale.

#3

Airtech can take awhile to get your order filled. I bought several rolls from them and waited almost 2 months for the stuff.

Id price shop fiberglass supply (all one word for the net addy) and see what they have. I buy my tape by the box from them now.

#4

Do I need to do anything to the H/F pot to convert it to vacuum use?

Also…what peel ply does everyone go with?

#5

you need to swop the pressure gauge to a vacuum gauge but im guessing you knew that :slight_smile:

#6

Indeed I did know that one! :slight_smile: Anything else I would need to do to the pot? I see some have relief valves. Is this a necessary part?

#7

The relief valve can be use to release the vacuum pressure to open the pot. Not 100% needed.

You might want to place a paper cup or a cut down bucket plastic liner to catch any resin, but again not 100% needed.

www.richmondaircraft.com is another supplier too!