Carbon Tuner (08/07/2012)

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In my opinion pre preg should be avoided at all costs and looks like poo poo. I'd use it to make large parts, like a plane wing, that's about it.

I have done some of my own experiments with my home made autoclave. (a pressure paint pot, I took the release valve off and plumbed it so I could attach vacuum lines and air pressure through the lid)

The part I infused was put in the pot at full 29HG vacuum and the pressure pot pressurized to 65psi. I also put this autoclave in my oven at 100f.

The part came out amazingly compacted. There is no doubt that this piece was superior in strength because the resin to fiber ratio was so low.

The down side is that the 3d look that is so desirable to us was gone. The fibers on the surface were squashed down flat as a pancake.

For carbon fiber strength I will use an Autoclave, but for cosmetic panels I will use infusion.

I have discovered that Binks makes a paint pressure pot that has a volume of 60 gallons 23.5 inch dia by 40 inch depth. I got a used one for $400.00 bucks. This is a cheap way to get access to your own Autoclave. They are rated at 110psi working pressure at 650 f. I am mounting it on its side where the lid will become the access door. It has 12 quick clamps and fittings to plumb the vacuum and pressure lines. Thought you guys might be interested in this.

Fred