Used to create high strength components, the pultrusion process is a means of reinforcing an existing shape by drawing reinforcing fibers through a resin bath, then heating and curing these impregnated fibers. It is a continuous process that generates cross-section composite profiles; these composites offer exceptional performance in a wide range of environments, providing additional corrosion resistance and strength with little added weight.
The process is regularly used in the production of products like golf clubs, fishing poles and other items that require maximum strength in a limited frame. Pultrusion is also employed in the production of structural shapes, such as beams and supports, in order to provide the parts with maximum strength; these composites often surpass conventional materials in performance, and can be customized to meet the requirements of the function. The process is also cost effective for large production runs, and extremely dependable. Other advantages include thermal and electrical insulation for various components, when appropriate materials are used, as well as exceptional stability (parts will not easily deform).
In the pultrusion process, reinforcing fibers are directed from creels, or bobbin-holding frames, through a resin bath. They move from the resin bath through a set of plates that form them into the appropriate profile shape, and from these plates to a heated die. Within the heated die, the resin and fibers cure into a thermoset resin matrix. Finally, the thermoset profile leaves the die, cools, and is cut to the appropriate length with a flying cutoff saw. Typical materials used as fibers include aramid and glass fibers, with glass being the most common type used by manufacturers. Among the resins employed are epoxy resins, vinyl ester resins and unsaturated polyester resins, as well as various phynolic resins. By changing the resin and fiber type, various characteristics can be achieved.
