Curing autoclave prepreg in an oven


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Henkka
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Hi,

Is it possible to cure prepregs that are supposed to be used in an autoclave using an oven? The manufacturer recommends 85 psi of autoclave pressure and 177 degrees C temperatures for curing and I'm wondering how critical the pressure is to achieve good results. 

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Steve Broad
Steve Broad
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Hanaldo - 12/4/2019 2:18:54 AM
Steve Broad - 12/3/2019 11:55:27 PM
I bought some out of date autoclave (just approaching its best before date) carbon from a supplier at a very good price, it would have been rude not to. Their help desk said that it could be used OOA if the following procedure was followed. Lay up first two layers, using a roller to compress the layers firmly together, then vacuum bag for 8 hours. Unbag and add next layers and repeat until all the carbon is in the mould. Vacuum up and place in oven. Bring up to 80 deg C and dwell for 30 minutes, then continue to desired curing temp and dwell for prescribed time.

However, not all autoclave carbon is the same so I suggest that you check with your supplier to see if your stuff is suitable for OOA.

Have you actually tried it though, did it work as described? I've tried samples of autoclave pre-preg from several different suppliers who all claim that it will work OOA. None of them gave good results in composite moulds, very bad porosity. Worked ok on glass and metal tools (not perfect but salvageable with some clear coating) so I feel this is what the manufacturers base their recommendations on.

I have no idea of porosity but there are very few pin holes. As I paint the carbon I am not interested in a mirror finish so my moulds aren't polished so can't speak for the quality of a shiny surface.

Edited 6 Years Ago by Steve Broad
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Henkka - 6 Years Ago
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