What Is Composite Manufacturing?
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Composite materials are those which are made up of two or more different materials which when combined become stronger than the individual materials. The components in a composite material don’t blend entirely or lose their individuality but combine and contribute their most useful traits to make the product. |
The process of fabricating composite materials is known as Composite manufacturing. Typically constructed composite materials include reinforced plastics such as the fibre-reinforced polymer which is otherwise known as fibreglass and composite wood such as plywood.
Processes
There are mainly three types of composite manufacturing processes. These are listed below:
- Open moulding:
In this process, composite materials like resins and fibres are placed in an open mould and they take the definite shape while being exposed to air. Being a method involving inexpensive tooling Open Molding is often used for making prototypes and short production runs.
- Closed Molding:
In this process, composite materials are processed in a two-sided mould or a vacuum bag. Closed moulding can be used if enhanced production volumes are required, or a two-sided finish is needed. Its industrial applications are generally widespread, and it is one of the most widely used moulding methods.
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- Cast Polymer Molding:
This can include both open as well a closed moulding method. In this process, a mixture of resin and fillers are poured into a mould and then left to harden and take a definite shape.