Unit 2 Materials and Components - Composites

Question 1

How is a composite material created?

Answer 1

when 2 or more materials are bonded together

Question 2

Why would you make a composite material?

Answer 2

Improved mechanical function

improved aesthetic properties

Question 3

What is a benefit of using composite materials?

Answer 3

They have a excellent strength to weight ratio

Question 4

What is GRP?

Answer 4

Glass Reinforced Plastic

Question 5

How is GRP manufactured

Answer 5

Using thermosetting plastic resin reinforced with very fine glass

Question 6

What form does the glass come in for GRP?

Answer 6

Matting or strips

Question 7

What are the advantages of GRP?

Answer 7

Good strength to weight ratio

very resistant to corrosion

Question 8

What are the disadvantages of GRP?

Answer 8

The resin can shatter
Unsatisfactory for vehicles - risk in accidents
Used in boat building but prone to osmosis

Question 9

What are the stages of manufacture using GRP?

Answer 9

1. High quality mould is prepared
2. Release agent is sprayed onto the mould
3. Gel coat is applied to the mould
4. Glass matting, layers of resin and catalyst are placed on the mould
5. Layering up is done and then the left to cure overnight

Question 10

What is carbon fibre?

Answer 10

Thermosetting plastic resin and carbon fibers set on a polymer matrix

Question 11

Why would carbon fibre be used over GRP?

Answer 11

Much stronger

Question 12

When would carbon fibre be used?

Answer 12

high performance structural applications e.g. aircraft, sports equipment, sports cars

Are able to replace traditional materials

Question 13

What are the stages of manufacture of carbon fibre?

Answer 13

1. High quality mould is prepared
2. Release agent is sprayed onto the mould
3. Gel coat is applied to the mould
4. Carbon fibre, layers of resin and catalyst are placed on the mould
5. Layering up is done and then the left to cure overnight