Laminating (thermosetting plastics)

Question 1

Define lamination

Answer 1

In lamination, paper or weaves of fibres are soaked in thermoset resin, compressed and heated.

Question 2

What type of products does lamination produce? Give examples

Answer 2

Strong rigid, lightweight parts such as aircraft interior seat and panelling, fibreglass boat hulls and parts, printed circuit boards.

Question 3

Explain the three step process of lamination

Answer 3

1. Fibres (e.g. glass, carbon, paper) in a sheet or loose form, are soaked in a bath of thermoset resin.
2. The laminate is heated and compressed, allowed to set (cure), the cooled and cut.
3. Adding fibres to thermoset plastics makes a strong and lightweight product.