VACUUM BAGGING TECHNIQUES

Vacuum bagging is a composite materials processing method that produces higher quality laminates by eliminating voids, removing any extra resin, and conforming the materials to shapes more effectively. The weight of the laminate can be reduced without compromising strength by removing excess resin that cannot be removed during basic hand lay-ups. Eliminating voids in the laminate produces much better strength and helps eliminate potential failure points. Vacuum bagging is more expensive and time consuming than hand lay-ups, but can offer superior strength and substantial weight savings in laminates. The following materials provide all the basic components necessary for vacuum bagging.