I started a new carbon fiber enclosure over the weekend. It's moulded to the 20" spare wheel (migrating my sub to the new car). The tub (bottom half) is thin, rigid, light as a feather and holds ~37L of water already. I still have to build the raised lid, which will sit ~25mm above the top of the wheel - providing some more volume.
I used a gym ball and ~100kg of retaining wall blocks to apply positive pressure. It turned out ok, but more pressure certainly would have helped - it's a little rough, though no-one will see it. I calculated the positive pressure to only be 1-3psi pressure at best - where a vacuum pump can theoretically provide up to ~14psi...

This lid will certainly benefit from a proper vacuum, and will look much better with a smooth glossy finish. I've been experimenting a bit with DIY vacuum bagging for a while (incl silicone mold making), but feel it's time to bite the bullet and buy some proper equipment (pump and lines etc) ... Having proper equipment should also help with making any carbon fiber mouldings (eg. mirror caps)
Has anyone had any experience with vacuum bagging composites (carbon fiber / fibreglass)? Any suggestions for a simple/affordable starter kit? Is there somewhere local to get these from?
I've been looking Vaccum pumps/chambers used for degassing resins/silicone and by refrigeration mechanics - any idea if these are suitable?
I used a gym ball and ~100kg of retaining wall blocks to apply positive pressure. It turned out ok, but more pressure certainly would have helped - it's a little rough, though no-one will see it. I calculated the positive pressure to only be 1-3psi pressure at best - where a vacuum pump can theoretically provide up to ~14psi...
This lid will certainly benefit from a proper vacuum, and will look much better with a smooth glossy finish. I've been experimenting a bit with DIY vacuum bagging for a while (incl silicone mold making), but feel it's time to bite the bullet and buy some proper equipment (pump and lines etc) ... Having proper equipment should also help with making any carbon fiber mouldings (eg. mirror caps)
Has anyone had any experience with vacuum bagging composites (carbon fiber / fibreglass)? Any suggestions for a simple/affordable starter kit? Is there somewhere local to get these from?
I've been looking Vaccum pumps/chambers used for degassing resins/silicone and by refrigeration mechanics - any idea if these are suitable?
Comment