Short answer: How do infusion consumables form a system?
Vacuum film, sealant tape, peel ply, release film, flow mesh, breather, spiral tube and fittings should be selected as one process system operating under the same temperature, resin and vacuum conditions. 🧩
Why does it matter?
One consumable with an unsuitable temperature class or chemical incompatibility can risk the entire part. Every material inside the bag, not only the film, must withstand the peak cure condition.
Functions of the main products
- Vacuum film: creates the airtight process volume.
- Peel ply: leaves a clean bond-ready surface after removal.
- Release film: controls separation and resin passage.
- Flow mesh: influences resin distribution rate.
- Sealant tape: prevents air leakage between bag and tool.
Five critical steps to reduce vacuum leaks
- Prepare a clean, dry and continuous tool flange.
- Do not stretch tape around corners; press overlaps firmly.
- Provide enough film slack and pleats over sharp geometry.
- Test tube and fitting entries as separate leak points.
- Run a stable vacuum-drop test before opening resin.
How is temperature class selected?
Consider peak cure temperature, dwell time, oven or autoclave pressure and a safety margin. For a 120°C process, do not select a film rated exactly at the limit without adequate margin.
Frequently asked questions
Are peel ply, release film and flow mesh the same?
No. Peel ply prepares the surface, release film controls separation and resin passage, and flow mesh distributes resin.
Can the same film be used with every resin?
No. Chemical compatibility, temperature and process duration must be verified against technical data.
How is a complete consumables list prepared?
Send part dimensions, tool type, resin, cure cycle and target infusion time through the technical request so we can prepare a compatible bill of materials.