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Production Processes
Composite materials are manufactured by two main assembly approaches.

Open Molding
Molding and curing of composite material are exposed to free air. Cheap and practical.

Closed Molding
Molding and curing of composite material are inside a closed cavity without atmospheric exposure. Excellent quality.
Rules of Composite Production
To maximize the stiffness, strength, and overall “quality” of the composite material/part, the manufacturer should practice the following guideline:
Engineering
Select the right combination of reinforcements, matrix, and additives
Fiber%
Maintain fiber volume fraction at around 50~65% (optimum fiber volume fraction depends on design)
Uniformity
Achieve uniform fiber volume fraction throughout part (e.g., avoid resin-rich or resin-starved regions)
Void
Eliminate void content (e.g., eliminate air bubbles)
Adhesion
Ensure good adhesive bonding between fiber/matrix, between plies, and from part-to-part
Impurity
Eliminate all contaminants
Supply
Build a functional supply chain by working with reliable vendors
Employee
Most composites are still fabricated manually. So guide, train, and protect the employees well