Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Prepeg over part core

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic23497.aspx

By TomW059 - 6/14/2017 9:23:20 AM

HI,

I new to prepeg and want to try to make some parts without a mold, but instead use a 3D printed part core. 
I´m going to make a hydrofoil wing that is about 600mm x 150mm. 

The idea is to 3D print the core and then put on vari-preg 430 very carefully and trim to trailing edge of wing with precise overlapp, then a layer of easypreg with gloss layer out, and trim carefully. 
Then cover with release film- again with no wrinkles. Put it into V-bag and cure oven. 

I want to avoid any major grinding or sanding to avoid changing the wing profile- i would like to be able to only sand the trailing edge /fiber overlapp. and  go directly to sand to 400-600-800g matt finish. 

Do you think this is possible ? 
By Fasta - 6/22/2017 6:10:13 AM



I have made a number of hydrofoils with a similar technique but I used a CNC solid fibreglass core (aka G10).

You wont get any pinholes but the surface will need a little refinishing with a resin coat or two.

The issues I would be concerned about are will the printed core stand up to the pre pre cure temp and hold it's shape?

Also the pre preg will not likely bond very well to the plastic core so if you are expecting any significant structural strength from the core then it may not have that??