Vacuum Bagging/Infusion Shopping List...Am I Missing Anything?

General Composites Discussions Equipment Talk
#1

OK so after doing research, I’ve decided to start off small and wanted to get your guys advice on this starter setup to learn vacuum bagging and infusion. Currently the two molds I made are only ~1’x1’ including the flange area. Very excited to learn the next step! If I am missing anything please let me know.

Robinair 15310 VacuMaster 3 CFM Single Stage Pump(ultimate vac 75 microns)
Homemade resin trap from pvc
Vacuum connector
infusion spiral
2" vacuum gauge
Gum tape
Peel ply
Breather fabric
Vacuum bags
misc fittings and hoses

For parts that will be max 2’x2’ do you think I can get away with the 1.5 cfm pump (ultimate vac 115 microns)? Trying to keep this budgeted to $300 for a starter, but do have deeper pockets if needed but rather not at this time

#2

Instead of breather fabric you are gonna need infusion mesh. You also need a release and sealer.

#3

1.5 cfm is fine. You don’t need big CFM, just good vacuum. I use a little tiny lab type pump and it sucks down well jsut, might take a little longer if you have a big bag. The high CFM pumps are usually more expensive. I bought my pump from ebay for $50 and it’s probably older than I am but, it’s american made lab quality goodness.

Also spray tackifier is a good to have, if not a must.

Flow media is a must have.

I do without spiral tube, seems unnecessary and wasteful to me; especially on small parts.

For the sealant tape, get some good stuff that’s very sticky. I used to use the yellow type of tape from general sealants, then switch to a sticker brown type. Seals much nicer. Vacuum leaks are your worst enemy.

For fittings I buy the small one from home depot that are for garden watering or something, and the hose there too.

Seems like you pretty much got it.