Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Sheet wax tips needed + single layer skinning

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic32913.aspx

By wojtepanik - 5/22/2019 11:19:47 AM

Hello 
I will be using Sheet Wax for the first time. I will be applying it onto mirror cover to get mould for single layer 'skin', Is it pliable in any way or is it rigid in it's structure? will I have to apply it in form of strips or other shapes adjusted for the shape of the mirror, or is one sheet applied from the top enough to take the shape of the mirror? What thickness should I choose? I have available .5mm and 1mm and up. I am planning to use 1 200-250gsm layer, just as a skin, which I will be glueing with tinted black 5min epoxy. Do I apply release agent onto the wax? Thanks
By MarkMK - 5/28/2019 7:54:19 AM

Yes, when using only a couple of layers of fairly lightweight fabric, the peel-plied inner surface is usually flat enough. Making sure that the vacuum bag is generously pleated helps to avoid any unwanted bridges and thicker sections that might affect the fit

The peel-plied finish also gives you a good surface for bonding without need to key it too much

Using two plies of fabric will make the part a little more resistant to cracking during de-mould. If consolidated well, they should offer a great fit and the part shouldn't be more than around 0.5mm thick. A single ply might be more prone to cracking during de-mould, especially on the first couple of pulls where a bit of effort might be needed to get them out