advantages of composites
Composites are a great medium for use in an enormous range of products, but like all things there are things to consider. Composites come at a price and you simply should not look at comparing with conventional materials in conventional applications.
Unless exploiting the advantages, you may not be getting the best value for your money.
Unless exploiting the advantages, you may not be getting the best value for your money.
A Short Summary of the Advantages
Mould ability - any shape virtually without restriction.
Repeatability. Production runs are made in moulds, therefore are all the same. Within process tolerances. See process for further info.
Mould ability - any shape virtually without restriction.
Repeatability. Production runs are made in moulds, therefore are all the same. Within process tolerances. See process for further info.
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Decorative to Structural. Gothic to Modern. Art-Deco to Edwardian. Lightweight - Minimal Cranage Minimal Fixings Required. Minimal load on Building Minimal risk of Falling |
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High Strength to Weight Ratio
Fire Retardant - Self-extinguishing. This is achieved relatively easy with special resins and additives.
Fire Resistant - Do not burn at all. Achieved by use of Phenolics. Costly and difficult.
Low Thermal Conductivity - good for insulation.
Chemical & Weathering Resistance - good weathering properties, won't rot, rust or spall
Low Electrical Conductivity
Radio transparent
Colour - Wide range of Gelcoat Colours and special finishes available, don't recommend too dark however. Can be painted.
Fire Retardant - Self-extinguishing. This is achieved relatively easy with special resins and additives.
Fire Resistant - Do not burn at all. Achieved by use of Phenolics. Costly and difficult.
Low Thermal Conductivity - good for insulation.
Chemical & Weathering Resistance - good weathering properties, won't rot, rust or spall
Low Electrical Conductivity
Radio transparent
Colour - Wide range of Gelcoat Colours and special finishes available, don't recommend too dark however. Can be painted.
Things to be aware of
It is not a "Cheap" alternative.
It is a cost effective one.
It is not "Stiff" but is strong.
Shape is good.
Engineering design is different but plenty of help available.
Allow for Thermal expansion. 3 times that of steel
Design to exploit the advantages.
Try and avoid dark colours, or, design joints around it
It is not a "Cheap" alternative.
It is a cost effective one.
It is not "Stiff" but is strong.
Shape is good.
Engineering design is different but plenty of help available.
Allow for Thermal expansion. 3 times that of steel
Design to exploit the advantages.
Try and avoid dark colours, or, design joints around it
