Prepregs

What is prepreg?

Prepreg is a term assigned to various base materials (carbon, fiberglass, kevlar, etc.) that have been pre-impregnated with a resin system, typically an epoxy-based system. Prepregs are most commonly tacky to the touch, like the back of masking tape. They provide great benefit in processing as the resin content is highly controlled, and the application is generally very clean, requiring little to no cleanup, unlike more commonly known wet-layups. 

How do I store prepreg?

Since the majority of resin systems are designed to be heat activated, our prepregs require storage at or below freezing temps in order to lengthen the materials' work life. Aerospace-grade prepregs are generally rated for up to 30 days out-life at room temperature. Because of this, we require Next Day Air shipping on all prepreg orders.

How do I process prepreg?

• HEAT: Most of our epoxy systems are considered 250F systems. Meaning they are engineered to cure at ~250°F for up to 3 hours, sometimes 4. Each prepreg listed has specific cure temperatures (profile) related to the formulated resin system with which it has been impregnated. 
• PRESSURE : Can be applied any number of ways including but not limited to autoclave, press, vacuum, and compaction tapes. Since most shops do not have access to an autoclave or heated press, the latter two options are mostly used for smaller operations. 

What do I need to make a part?

It depends on what kind of tools and materials you have already at your disposal. Most new DIYers will need at least the following:

• An oven large enough to contain the part and capable of up to 250°F
• A mold that is used to create the needed shape and is capable of withstanding the required processing heat and pressure
• Vacuum bagging materials including the following:
• Vacuum bag
• Peel ply
• Breather
• Vacuum pump (or venturi vacuum generator)
• Chromate / Sealant tape
• Hoses

Things You should know before ordering prepreg

Prepregs are intended for frozen storage and have a 30 day "out-life" if stored at room temperature. If you are interested in a room temperature storage prepreg that would last up to 12 months at 72F, please contact us.

To assist in protecting your order, we offer the additional service of including dry ice and insulated packaging. We can also include a temperature recorder in the shipment so you can track the climate swings that affected your order in transit.

We can provide certificates of conformance (supplied by RWC) and material certification (supplied by the manufacturer) for a nominal fee. The above services can all be chosen as you add the product to your cart!

Please understand that due to the nature of the material, we do not accept returns for prepregs, so we highly recommend you add dry ice, insulated packaging, and expedited shipment to minimize out-life.

Video - Introduction to Prepreg Fiber Orientation