What ever type of composite material is being laid down the most important aspect in terms of finish and strength is good consolidation.
Without good consolidation the laminate is likely to be full of blisters and other defects, each reducing the overall strength of the part.
Whilst Autoclaving, RTM and Vacuum infusion give the best consolidation, not all jobs can justify the expense.
Vacuum consolidation of wet laid material is a less costly half way house.
Vacuum is applied to the mould by enclosing the part or surface of the mould within an airtight bag. A release film is applied to the surface of the wet laminate to allow a breather blanket to extract the air.
This has the effect of pulling the composite laminate down onto the mould surface and at the same time consolidating the laminate.
Air and blisters are eliminated and surface replication is enhanced.
The method can be used for low temperature pre-pregs, Sprint and Z Preg dry fabric pre-pregs, as well as wet lay epoxy and phenolic resins.
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