ABSTRACT
The properties of composite materials used in marine industry are strongly influenced by the manufacturing process. In this scope, this work aims to compare the usual production methods of yachting - hand lay-up, vacuum bagging, and infusion - through a quantitative study of the physical and mechanical properties of fiberglass/polyester composites. The methodology consisted in the manufacture of specimens using different processes, performance of tensile and water absorption testing, and surface density calculation. The infusion was the method that showed higher tensile strength results and lower density values. The hand lay-up specimens absorbed more water than others. In conclusion, it was noticed that the reinforcement/matrix rate achieved by infusion resulted in better physical and mechanical properties to the laminate than the other methods studied. The vacuum bagging showed up as an intermediate method in terms of physical and mechanical properties.
Keywords:
fiberglass; hand lay-up; vacuum bagging; infusion; yachting
