Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

I want to do a cosmetic skinning to my work desk, using spread-tow 15mm 2/2 twill

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic13599.aspx

By TDShimo - 11/4/2014 9:33:03 AM

I would like to freshen the look of my workstation by applying a carbon fibre skin to this desktop. This application means that the carbon fibre won't need to have any structural strength, merely cosmetic. I'd like to use a large-pattern cloth, like spread-tow 15mm 2/2 twill. You can see from the photos that the desk is a boomerang shape, with a number of different curves. The dimensions of the desk are [EDIT: Changed specs - it's larger, critically, in the max depth] 43 1/4" max depth, 88 5/8" width, and approximately 1" thick, with a few other contours shown (or, 1.1M x 2.25M x 25mm). I'd like it to have a high-gloss finish, or possibly, a nice, even matte finish with some texture. The substrate is some kind of fibre-reinforced resin. I'd like to wet lay the CF on the desktop, and wrap it around underneath just enough so it is cosmetically pleasing (though not cover the underside). 

Questions: 
- Is a 15mm 2/2 twill appropriate for this application (with these contours), or am I looking at a challenging application?
- How many layers would be necessary?
- Does the 0.95M + 25mm (x2) dimension present a problem with standard fabric sizes/rolls?
- Is it reasonable to expect a nice, even, glossy finish without using a mould? Or, would it be more appropriate to try for a matte finish? 
- If this project is feasible, is there a kit available from Easy Composites that would be appropriate?


Thanks for your guidance!

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Uploads/Images/094d3110-530c-4e3d-96e1-7b1b.png




http://www.talkcomposites.com/Uploads/Images/25e4b937-8999-47b8-9b8f-dce.jpeg

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By Dravis - 1/7/2015 10:52:27 AM

That stuff is almost certainly the same as this:

http://www.wessex-resins.com/products/wra-permakote.html  

They are UK based --- in Cupernham La, Romsey SO51 7LF, UK
+44 1794 521111


Wessex resins tote this as a "coating resin" for table tops etc. but it is much more useful than just that ...

It is a very tough and very clear coating resin, that can be brushed on and will self-level out the brushmarks quite well.

It leaves almost no trapped bubbles, even without using a heat gun ..

BUT:  It will not properly wet out carbon fibres, and it will trap airbubbles inside fabrics... so in effect it is ONLY a top coat ..

Also it will flow off steep sides ... but still leave a nice thick coat.