Abstract: A composite material comprising reinforcing carbon fibres in an epoxy resin matrix is manufactured by stacking alternate layers of resin impregnated fibre and polyester release film, and compressing the stack between shaped formers at a temperature below the resin cure temperature. The layers are than separated and the release film discarded. After re-stacking, the fibre layers are autoclave moulded on an appropriately shaped former at a temperature at which the layers consolidate and the resin cures.

Abstract: A method of moulding composite materials in which prepregs of resin impregnated filaments are interposed between a shaped partially contained polytetrafluoroethylene body and a die. The assembly is heated to cause the polytetrafluoroethylene body to thermally expand and compress the prepregs against the die so that the prepregs are moulded to the shape of the die and the resin in the prepregs cures.

Abstract: A method of molding a composite material comprising reinforcing fibres enclosed in a resin matrix. Layers of the resin impregnated fibres are laid-up in a suitably shaped die whereupon the laid-up layers are overlaid by a silicone rubber member which generally corresponds in shape with the die. Hydraulic pressure is exerted upon the silicone rubber member so that it urges the laid-up fibres into the configuration of the die. The whole molding apparatus is placed in an oven and its temperature is raised to that at which consolidation of the laid-up fibres occurs and the resin cures. The exerted hydraulic pressure is progressively reduced during heating as the silicone rubber member thermally expands so as to ensure that the pressure exerted by the silicone rubber member upon the laid-up fibres remains substantially constant.