Is it possible to get a nice consistent matte on a mold surface with abrasives? Maybe sand to 3000 or 4000? Steel wool? Any other options? Also if doing this, will mold be more sensitive to sticking prepreg parts (using frekote). 
Second question, what about prepreg matte carbon fiber sheets? Would normally use plates of glass. I've seen glass with a matte looking finish, but can't find it when searching for matte glass. Not sure what it would be called, or if there's a different material that should be used. 

How about peel ply? Has anyone tried that?


A Lifelong Learner

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John Hansen - 2/28/2019 5:13:22 PM

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farbonciber - 2/28/2019 10:58:14 AM

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John Hansen - 2/26/2019 4:04:41 PM

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quinn - 2/25/2019 5:22:55 PM

Is it possible to get a nice consistent matte on a mold surface with abrasives? Maybe sand to 3000 or 4000? Steel wool? Any other options? Also if doing this, will mold be more sensitive to sticking prepreg parts (using frekote). 
Second question, what about prepreg matte carbon fiber sheets? Would normally use plates of glass. I've seen glass with a matte looking finish, but can't find it when searching for matte glass. Not sure what it would be called, or if there's a different material that should be used. 

I like your question Quinn. I am with you on this. Everyone seems to be after a "perfect" finish. I never see anyone writing about how to achieve a finish at the other end of the spectrum from High Gloss. I wonder what finish would be achieved if you put release film down on the glass first? Then, after removing the part from the glass, pull the release film off and see what the finish looks like.

When I worked for a place making thick carbon sheets for F1 teams, we would wrap them in release film and they would come out glossy.

How about peel ply? Has anyone tried that?

Peel ply would leave a slightly rough texture on the surface.