Short answer: Which infusion resin should you select?
Epoxy can lead in mechanical performance and low shrinkage; vinyl ester balances chemical resistance and marine use; and polyester may suit cost and production-speed targets. Final selection must include viscosity, working time, cure cycle, fibre and core compatibility. 🧪
Why does it matter?
In infusion, resin must do more than cure: it must travel across the tool in time, wet the reinforcement and control exotherm. As part size increases, the pot-life and viscosity window becomes more critical.
Basic comparison
- Epoxy: high adhesion and mechanical performance; requires controlled mix ratio and cure.
- Vinyl ester: strong chemical and water resistance for marine and industrial uses.
- Polyester: economical and fast processing; odour, shrinkage and final performance require separate review.
Selection criteria
Viscosity and flow distance
Lower viscosity supports flow, but temperature, gel time, fibre volume fraction and flow-mesh design must be considered together.
Pot life and exotherm
Short pot life may increase dry-spot risk on large parts, while high exotherm can create temperature-control risk in thick sections.
Cure and service temperature
Even if initial room-temperature cure appears sufficient, post-cure may be required for target Tg and service temperature.
Review SDF168AB-3 for infusion and RTM, SDF263AB-J for vacuum-infusion applications and SDF100-1AB HT for elevated-temperature requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Is the lowest viscosity always best?
No. Low viscosity alone does not guarantee mechanical performance, drainage control, leak resistance or cure behaviour.
How is resin-to-core compatibility verified?
Chemical compatibility, process temperature, resin uptake and core surface treatment are checked using small-scale trials and TDS data.
What is required for a technical quotation?
Share part size, fibre type, core, infusion time, ambient and cure temperature, mechanical target and demand in the quotation request.