While renovating my boat, I needed to replace a small composite panel that had become too damaged to keep. Rather than trying to find an equivalent replacement part, I decided to take the opportunity to make a new carbon fibre part myself.
For this project, I used STRATPOXY PLUS, an epoxy system specifically designed for producing high-performance laminates and compatible with carbon fibre reinforcements.
Step One: Preparing the Mould
I started by preparing the mould for the shape of my new part. Before working with the resin, I carefully prepared the surface and applied the appropriate release agent.
I then cut the different layers of carbon fibre fabric so that everything was ready before starting the lamination process.
Step Two: Preparing STRATPOXY PLUS
Once all my equipment was ready, I mixed STRATPOXY PLUS with its hardener, carefully following the recommended mixing ratio of 100:37 by weight.
As my part was not particularly large, I chose the medium hardener to give me enough working time without having to wait too long before demoulding.
Step Three: Laminating My Carbon Fibre Part
I started by applying resin to the mould, then positioned the first layer of carbon fibre fabric before impregnating it with STRATPOXY PLUS.
I repeated the process with each layer until I achieved the desired thickness, taking care to remove any trapped air between the layers using a laminating roller.
Step Four: Demoulding and Installing My New Part
Once the lamination was complete, I left the resin to cure before removing the part from the mould. Depending on the hardener selected, the demoulding time at 20°C can range from 16 to 48 hours.
After completing the final finishing steps, my new carbon fibre part was ready to be installed on the boat.
A Part Made Specifically for My Project
Instead of searching for a replacement part that matched my exact requirements, I was able to make my own custom composite part.
STRATPOXY PLUS allowed me to work effectively with carbon fibre fabric and adapt the working time to suit my project, from preparing the mould through to final demoulding.
Above all, this experience showed me just how much can be achieved with epoxy lamination, whether creating custom-made parts or tackling larger composite projects.
