Fiberglass reinforcement for sailplanes

Abstract

In recent years, the combined efforts of the glass fiber producers and the weavers have lead to developments in fabric reinforcements, as well as in roving materials, which have opened new potentials for composite materials. New glass compositions such as S glass to improve mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties have been developed to advance the state of the art. Improvements in fabric design, weaving technology and finishing technology have increased composite design limitations. Remember that Fiberglas reinforced plastics is a family of engineering materials. As such the key variables to consider are: (1) the type of glass with all its associated characteristics such as composition, form, filament diameter and sizing; (2) the resin system, and (3) the process such as lay up, vacuum bagging or matched die molding. Keep in mind that although there are a number of variables to be considered, their proper choice can pay off in a composite structure with definite performance advantages.