The Fiberglass Manual - A Practical Guide to The Use of Reinforced Plastics

The Fiberglass Manual — A Practical Guide to The Use of Reinforced Plastics

Glass reinforced plastic or, more commonly, fiberglass, is a composite material made from strands of glass and liquid resin. This versatile material is used in the construction of cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, aircraft and any number of domestic and industrial items. Fiberglass is also an easy material for the DIY modeller or repairer to use. Here, Keith Noakes provides a comprehensive practical guide to the use of fiberglass wherever it is encountered or needed.

Written with the layman in mind, this book covers materials, tools and equipment, health and safety, repairing exisiting components, modifying and strengthening existing moldings, designing and making patterns, making moulds, wet lay-up technique, curing times and methods, releasing compounds from molds, and resin casting.

From repairing a simple crack to moulding a complete race-car body. The Fiberglass Manual shows you how, and will be invaluable for all car, motorcycle, boat, aircraft and DIY enthusiasts.

Table of Contents

Tools & Equipment
Materials
Making Patterns
Making Moulds
Polyester & Vinylester Laminating by Hand
Epoxy Laminating by Hand
Phenolic Laminating
Positive-Pressure Laminating With Matched Molds
Spray Laminating
Closed-Mould Laminating (RTM)
Foam as a Core Material
Repairs & Modifications
Troubleshooting
Resin Casting
Health & Safety
Conclusion

About the Author

Keith Noakes has extensive experience and knowledge of glass reinforced plastics, having worked in the industry for over twenty years. During that time,he advised motorcycle and motor racing teams on the use of composite materials for frames, chassis and bodywork, and formed his own company supplying components to Formula One and CART teams.