Ginger Gardiner Senior Technical Editor

Infusion 30 Nov 2010

Absolute vacuum gauge

The following is an excerpt from Issue 12 of The Composites Letter, published by www.vacmobiles.com (reposted here by permission) that outlines the importance of using an absolute vacuum gauge to measure pressure levels during double-bad infusion:“Often called a precision vacuum gauge, an absolute gauge actually works the opposite way to a conventional dial type vacuum gauge.

Autoclave 30 Nov 2010

Double-bag infusion: 70% fiber volume?

A double vacuum-bag system and tight process control enable repeatable fiber volumes of 60 to 70 percent and improves consistency of infused laminates.

Wind/Energy 30 Nov 2010

IBEX 2010: Looking up in Louisville

A new location helps regenerate a recession-battered industry, drawing in more exhibitors and attendees than in 2009.

Carbon Fibers 30 Sep 2010

Besting Big Ben: A Marvel in Makkah

Composite design makes possible the world’s largest clock and tallest clock tower.

Compression Molding 1 Jul 2010

Thermoformable thermoplastic composites

Thermoplastic composites that can be shaped into finished parts via thermoforming are proliferating as the thermoforming process gains traction, particularly in aerospace manufacturing. The following short article and chart provide some guidance in terms of sourcing.

Sustainability 30 Jun 2010

Aerospace-grade compression molding

Continuous Compression Molding process produces structures 30 percent lighter than aluminum at costs that have both Airbus and Boeing sold.

Design/Simulation 1 Jun 2010

Building a bigger Big Wheel

Machining specialist scales up the 1970s icon, producing plugs and tools for an exact fiberglass replica at a Disney resort.

Machining/Drilling 1 Jun 2010

Marine machining pioneer

Mollicam (Merritt Island, Fla.) was one of the first companies to bring a practical method of automated pattern construction into the marine industry.