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1. I currently make composite parts using a different process, how do I switch to prepregs?

Depending upon the amount of equipment and technology you currently have, it could be very simple or it could be a project that will take time and capital. The best way to evaluate this would be to open a dialogue and discuss the actual application and parts that are under consideration to be built.

2. How do I handle this material?

The material can come in a variety of forms; roll, sheets, or cut forms. The material can be stored at room temperature for a  period of 30 days, then the material has expired.  You can store the material for longer periods of time in a refrigerator at approximately 40 degrees F, or freeze the material at 0 degrees F for a period of 1 year.

3. How do I cure this material?

Depending upon the type of prepreg being cured, typical temperatures for cure cycles are 200 degrees F, 250 degrees F, 300 degrees F, and 350 degrees F. Along with temperature these types of material need pressure of some type to facilitate the co-mingling of the materials.  Standard types of pressure can be a vacuum bag, or a platten press or an autoclave.  Other methods have been  used as mechanical clamping devices, but consideration has to be taken into account for how the part will be heated to cure it.

 4. How are these material's shipped, are they hazardous?

All of A.P.C.M.'s materials are capable of being shipped over night by UPS or Federal Express for small quantities. For larger quantities the material can be shipped refrigerated truck, or if you are located in the cold sections of the world during the winter it can be shipped common carrier during the winter.  Concerning hazardous, these materials are very safe when used according to there MSDS and manufacturers specifications.

5. Where can I learn more about the use and handling of composites and prepregs?

There will soon be available a video on the basics of prepregs, look back and watch for its announcement.

Current Users

1. Can I buy small quantities of material?

Yes,  click on the price list under the standard products section to look and see if the material you want is there, if not ask us what you are looking for and we will try to locate it.

2. What is the availability?

Everything that is listed in the price list section is either in stock or will be available within 3 weeks.

3. Can I substitute a material for another material?

Yes and No, good answer huh, okay that’s enough trying to be funny.  A lot of materials can be substituted, it may take some investigation or even a trial run. This is where work is required, both materials would have to be looked at as far as there ,make up chemically to determine their compatibility. Another method is to find someone that has made substitutions and get their information, this is where A.P.C.M. can be very helpful.

4. I need design and application information?

There are many ways to get this kind of information, using all the vendors included in the project is one way, but also, you can find engineering firms that give a lot of basic information free. Other ways are through all of the professional societies, most of which have web pages where you can search specific information. Again this is where A.P.C.M. can be of service.

5. Where can I get product specific testing done, or find data already available?

A.P.C.M. has testing capabilities, but if we can not test what you need we will locate testing facilities for you to choose from. 

If there are any other questions please contact us and we will try to assist in any way possible. Remember, the only dumb question is the question NOT asked!

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