1. VACUUM BAGGING FILMS
A flexible, extruded film is normally used to form the vacuum bag and this is
supplied either in tubular or sheet form.The film is sealed to the edge of the mould
with vacuum bag sealant tape. Film types are outlined in this section.

2. VACUUM BAG SEALANT TAPES
Sealant tapes are used to provide a vacuum-tight seal between the bag and the
mould. The tape must have sufficient tack to adhere well to the mould surface but
not too much that the bag cannot be stripped away from the tape to allow
re-positioning.The tape must also strip cleanly from the mould surface after the
cure cycle. An extensive range of tapes covering all cure conditions is available.

3. BLEEDER & BREATHER FABRICS
Non-woven bleeder/breather fabrics allow air and volatiles to be removed from
within the vacuum bag throughout the cure cycle.They are also used to absorb
excess resin present in some composite lay ups.Various products are available and
selection depends on the temperature/pressures they must withstand during the
cure.

4. RELEASE FILMS
Release films are typically placed directly in contact with the laminate.They
separate the laminate from the breather fabric, which has no release characteristics.
Many types of release films exist and selection depends on cure temperature,
pressure, complexity of component and resin system involved. Release films are
often perforated to ensure that any trapped air or volatiles, which may compromise
the laminate, are removed.Various perforation types are available with film
thickness' ranging from 0.012mm to 0.05mm.

5. RELEASE FABRICS/PEEL PLIES
Both release fabrics and peel plies are placed against the surface of the laminate.
They are woven products which are strong and have good heat resistance.
Release films impart a gloss finish on the cured laminate whereas peel plies and
release fabrics leave an impression of the weave pattern. Peel plies provide a clean,
uncontaminated surface for subsequent bonding or painting.

6. FLASHTAPES
Flashtapes have many functions.They remove resin flash from the edge of the
laminate, hold the consumable package in place and tape down the pleats of the
vacuum bag.Various carrier films/adhesive systems exist and can be found in this
section.

7. SELF ADHESIVE PTFE TOOL RELEASE MATERIALS
These materials are designed for use with flat or single curvature tooling and when
applied to the tool surface, eliminate the need for application of release agents.

8. VACUUM FITTINGS
A selection of vacuum fittings including vacuum breach units, non-return, plug and
socket couplings and vacuum/autoclave hoses are found in this section. Reliability of
these items is paramount in ensuring that leaks do not occur.

9. RUBBER PRODUCTS
Aerovac offers a full range of cured and uncured rubber products in sheet and roll
form.

10. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
Ancillary products for the composite workshop.