Automotive
Mudguards, covers and visible components matched to vehicle geometry.
Shape begins with hands-on work.
Hand lay-up brings the operator directly to the mould geometry and each reinforcement layer. Discuss prototypes, covers and short runs through the requirements of the actual component rather than a fixed production recipe.
Hand lay-up (wet lamination) of composite materials is an advanced technique that is gaining popularity in industry. The process involves applying layers of resin to composite fibers in a wet state, which allows for better adhesion and durability of the final products. It is the oldest, most affordable and most proven lamination technique.
01
Geometry
Attention to curves, edges and transitions.
02
Appearance
Agree weave direction, surface and finish.
03
Scope
From reference preparation to component finishing.
Applications
Where the process can fit
Housings
Covers with defined shapes and mounting arrangements.
Prototypes
An initial part for reviewing appearance, fit and assumptions.
Short runs
Projects requiring an individually agreed scope and repeatability.
Process
From requirements to a component
Geometry, application and the agreed scope define every stage. This is how a component enquiry becomes a manufacturing plan.
- 01MouldDefines the shape and surface quality of the finished part.
- 02Release agentA thin layer that lets the laminate release easily from the mould.
- 03FabricReinforcing fiber — carries the loads and provides strength.
- 04ResinApplied with a roller or brush, it binds the fibers into a rigid composite.
- 01
Define the part
Collect the application, documentation and expectations. Identify visible faces, mounting and points to resolve before work begins.
- 02
Prepare reference and mould
Review the model or original component. Agree tooling preparation separately: its geometry and surface influence later stages.
- 03
Lay up and wet out
Reinforcement is fitted to the mould and wetted with resin. The actual design determines orientations and areas requiring attention.
- 04
Cure and finish
Curing follows the material requirements. Demoulding and agreed trimming, holes or surface preparation follow.
- 05
Review and fitting
Check the agreed characteristics. A fitting stage can review clearances, mounting access and appearance before proceeding.
Materials
More than a material choice
Reinforcement, resin and finish work together. Begin with what the finished component needs to do.
M / 01
Reinforcement
Carbon, glass or another solution should follow the requirements. A visible ply and the underlying construction can have different purposes.
M / 02
Resin system
Application, operating conditions and processing guide the choice. Fabric alone does not define the finished laminate.
M / 03
Surface
Technical, satin, gloss or prepared for painting. Agree the expectation through a reference or sample.
Comparison
Three processes. Different routes.
Start with the project rather than a ranking. Compare how material is handled and what needs agreement.
| Process | Reinforcement handling | Points to define |
|---|---|---|
| Hand lay-up ↗ | Wetted during lay-up | Geometry, finish and manual operations |
| Vacuum infusion ↗ | Resin introduced into a dry arrangement | Flow plan, seal and mould preparation |
| Prepreg ↗ | Pre-impregnated reinforcement | Material system, tooling and cure requirements |
Related insights
All →
Hand lay-up, vacuum infusion or prepreg: choosing a process for your component
Three approaches to composite production, different process requirements and one shared aim: a component suited to its application. Here is what to compare before choosing.
Read article
How to prepare a composite component project for a quote
A useful quotation starts with a clear brief. Learn what to send, which requirements to define and what to clarify before ordering a carbon or glass fibre component.
Read articleFAQ
Before starting your project
Do I need a 3D model?
It helps, but a dimensioned sketch, photographs or an existing part can begin the discussion.
Can I enquire about one part?
State the quantity. Feasibility depends on shape, tooling and expectations.
Can the weave remain visible?
Include weave orientation and gloss level in the visual requirements.
What determines the price?
Tooling, geometry, materials, quantity, finishing and the agreed scope.
Contact
Start with your component
Send a model, drawing or dimensioned photographs. Add the application, quantity and preferred timing. We can clarify the remaining questions together.
Request a quote ↗- 01Geometry or an available reference
- 02Application and operating conditions
- 03Quantity and intended timing
- 04Surface finish and mounting