A composite material’s key components are fibers and a resin. The fibers, typically made of glass or carbon fiber, provide strength and stiffness, but if used alone, cannot be made into a shape or form where these properties are applicable. Impregnating the fibers with resin followed by curing, however, allows us to engineer their strength, stiffness and light weight for a variety of applications, while adding even more benefits to the composite.
Thermoplastic composites at Oribi Composites: CW Trending, episode 4
Oribi Composites’ Matt Christensen discusses the origin of the Colorado-based thermoplastic composites fabricator, his role at the company, current products and programs, and the real potential for use of thermoplastic composites in wheels.
Resins: Essential Reading
Thermoset-thermoplastic joining, natural fibers enable sustainability-focused brake cover
Award-winning motorcycle brake disc cover showcases potential for KTM Technologies’ Conexus joining technology and flax fiber composites.
Digital Demo: The Advantages of Thermoplastics Technology
From stronger, longer-lasting parts to creating sustainable options for composite parts, this demo will pique your interest in this emerging technology. (Sponsored)
CDZ Compositi introduces patented 3D Flex Composite
Specialist in structural and aesthetic prepreg press parts enhances 3D shaping and flexibility in composite parts using carbon and other reinforcement fibers.
Composites enable epic interior for Museum of the Future
For this one-of-a-kind lobby, AFI pioneered digital, reconfigurable molds to achieve organic-shaped, multifunctional panels and stairwell cladding.
Applied Molecules launches UV-curable repair and filler resin
Applied Molecules LLC has launched the AJ13 Series of UV-curable composite repair and filler materials.
FAQ: Resins
What is a resin?
A solid or pseudo-solid organic material, generally of a high molecular weight. In fiber reinforced plastics, it is the resin that binds the fibers.
Source: Essentials of Advanced Composite Fabrication & Repair - Second Edition
What are the major groups of resins?
Thermoplastic and Thermoset resins.
What is a thermoplastic resin?
Polymers or copolymers that essentiall have no cross-links and can be melted or reshaped when heated to melt point or above the Tg.
Source: Essentials of Advanced Composite Fabrication & Repair - Second Edition
What is a thermoset resin?
A plastic that cures by the application of heat or by chemical reaction resulting in a cross-linked insoluble molecule; considered an irreversible process.
Source: Essentials of Advanced Composite Fabrication & Repair - Second Edition
