Where to start if this is your first time working with composites
First, determine not the name of the material, but the object: do you want to mold the part yourself from fabric or prepreg, buy a ready-made sheet for cutting, or pick up a tube or rod. Then describe the part's function, geometry, supports, load, environment, and expected result.
It is not necessary to know all the terms and choose a brand in advance. Separate confirmed requirements from assumptions: assembly dimensions may be mandatory, but thickness is only an option for now. Attach a sketch and ask about missing data. Such a request leads to a testable solution faster than asking for “the strongest carbon fiber.”
For critical structures, the information article does not replace calculations, technological documentation and testing. The higher the consequences of failure, the more important it is to involve a specialized engineer and fix the criteria before procurement.
Short dictionary
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Reinforcement | Fibers, tows or webs that provide directional support for the composite |
| Binder/matrix | A system that connects reinforcement and transfers load between its elements |
| Laminate | Cured package of reinforcement layers with binder |
| Prepreg | Reinforcing base with a pre-introduced binder system |
| Weaving | Method of relative arrangement of threads in woven fabric |
| Surface density | Web mass per unit area; is not a finished part characteristic |
| Layer Map | Description of the sequence, boundaries and directions of layers in a part |
| Delamination | Layer separation or interlaminar damage to the composite |
| Tolerance | Allowed parameter deviation from the nominal value |
| Acceptance criterion | A pre-agreed way to recognize the result as meeting the target |
What to prepare before requesting
Describe the purpose, dimensions, load, connection method, quantity and outcome criteria. Attach an available drawing, DXF, STEP, photo of the unit or sketch, but indicate what data still requires clarification.
For material, request a current card, delivery conditions and item-specific documents. For a finished part, separate the raw material requirements from the processing, surface, edge, marking, and completeness requirements.
Practical Process Dictionary
| Term | What does it mean in the problem |
|---|---|
| Fiber | Initial reinforcement component; its properties are not equal to the properties of the finished part |
| Roving | Continuous fiber bundle for further processing or directional reinforcement |
| UD | Unidirectional form, where the bulk of the reinforcement is oriented along one direction |
| Multiaxial fabric | Layers of reinforcement with several specified directions, connected without the classical weave of threads |
| Plain | Plain weave with high web stability and relatively limited drape |
| Twill | Twill weave, usually more flexible to lay than plain |
| Drapability | The ability of the canvas to follow the shape of the equipment without unwanted folds and distortions |
| Curing | Controlled transformation of the binder system into the final state according to a confirmed mode |
| TDS | Material Specific Data Sheet with Conditions and Typical/Declared Parameters |
| Viability | Limited time during which a material or mixture is recyclable under specified conditions |
| Porosity | Voids in the composite. Their level is related to the process and can affect the result |
| RF/EMC | RF and electromagnetic requirements that check for the entire structure, not just the fiber |
| Prototype | Validation part or lot to evaluate assembly, process, and criteria prior to production |
| Traceability | Relationship between material and result with batch, documents, mode and control record |
If the term affects the purchasing specification, use the definition from the consensus standard or the specific item document.
Frequently asked questions
How to choose the right carbon material?
Start with part function, load, geometry, and process. After this, the delivery form and specific group of material are selected.
How is fabric different from prepreg?
The fabric is a reinforcing base; in the prepreg, the reinforcement is already combined with a binder system for subsequent processing.
Sheet, tube or rod - what to choose?
The choice is determined by the geometry of the element and the method of transferring the load: flat part, hollow long section or solid rod.
Why doesn't the Tech Center show prices?
Information pages do not duplicate commercial data. Price and availability are confirmed in the category or application.
Is it possible to select a material without a drawing?
You can start the discussion with dimensions, a sketch and a description of the function, but unambiguous geometry is required for calculation or production.
What file formats are accepted?
The format depends on the task. For a flat contour, DXF is useful, for volumetric geometry - a suitable model and drawing; kit confirms production.
How to avoid mistakes when choosing thickness?
Do not choose it based on one size; consider supports, load, cutouts, structure, permissible deflection and inspection method.
When is a prototype needed?
For a new geometry, critical requirement, or series, a prototype helps validate assembly, technology, and acceptance criteria.
Is it possible to replace carbon fiber with fiberglass or vice versa?
Replacement requires re-examination of design, thickness, connections, process and load criteria.
Are the Tech Center materials a technical brief?
No. These are engineering guidelines for setting the problem. The specification consists of confirmed documents and commercial approval of a specific item.