METHODS FOR PRODUCING POLYESTER-GLASS COMPOSITES

VACUUM INFUSION TECHNOLOGY

Vacuum technology allows to obtain very high parameters of composite – reinforcement content even up to 50% – 60%. It consists in placing in a mold covered with gelcoat consecutive “dry” (without resin) layers of reinforcing materials, and assembling layers/installations making possible distribution of resin and channels sucking air from under the bag. Product is made in one technological process, and styrene emission is several times lower than with the use of hand technology.

Advantages of this method:

• the process does not depend on employee’s skills; the process designed one time, gives products of repeated quality,
• high quality in comparison with the hand method; well-consolidated laminate with walls having a uniform thickness,
• optimal rigidity and resistance,
• glass content in laminate is from 10% to 20% higher than in products made by hand with the same reinforcement diagram,
• relatively fast production cycle,
• minimum styrene emission,
• possibility of using molds from hand technology – wide flanges are required, which can be extended on every mold,

Limitations of this method:

• high cost of auxiliary materials,
• relatively low aesthetics of the left side of product,
• long time of implementation of every product,
• high unit cost of manufactured component.