First Layup
Hello everyone!
This week, I made the composite panel for the control group that I will cut and test next week. The hand layup process is fairly simple. First, I do my best to cut 12 inch by 12 inch squares from the roll of fiberglass. This can be difficult because the weave can stretch and bend on the table, so when I cut it, I don’t get perfect squares. I cut out 8 layers to make sure the panel will be thick enough to test. Then, the epoxy is mixed with hardener in a cup. I stipple the epoxy mixture onto each layer of fabric to saturate it with epoxy. Once a layer is saturated, I add the next one until I have all the layers. The epoxy cures in about 24 hours, so I can leave it when I’m done.
The composites I am making are fiber-matrix composites, meaning they have a weave of fibers surrounded by a filler material. In this case, I am using fiberglass with an epoxy matrix. Composite laminates (laminate being the entire assembly) have a certain number of layers, each called a ply or lamina, each aligned in a specific direction. I am making an 8-layer composite, meaning I have 8 sheets of fiberglass that I stack onto each other. All of my layers are aligned in the 0 direction, meaning they all face the same way with respect to a predetermined direction. However, layers could be made in 30, 45, or 90 degree angles as well. Having layers oriented in different directions changes the overall characteristics of the laminate.
I’ve attached a picture of the final laminate curing on the table. Next week, I’ll add grips to the laminate, cut it, and perform the tests.
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