Tooling for composite production, also known as mould or matrix, can be made of almost any material.
Materials such as fiberglass, high density foams, machinable epoxy panels and even clay, wood or gypsum are often suitable for the parts that harden at low or room temperature or for making a prototype where precise dimensions are not required.
But the stricter the requirements of the operational properties and the larger the number of products, the higher the price and complexity of the tooling. Usually, a high-performance tooling is made of hard metals that survive multiple cycles and ensure the good quality of the surface and the high precision of the dimensions.
Basic materials:
1. matrix resins and gelcoats 2. fiberglass fabrics and glass mats 3. polyester pastes 4. finishing coat 5. fittings and consumables 6. release agents