For customers requiring specific testing information, we have prepared the following laminate comparison table. This table should help you select the proper material when the stress loads of your parts are known in advance. Also, if a single fabric type won't work, they may be combined in the laminate forming a hybrid lay-up with the benefits of more than one type of material. Once the family of fabric has been determined, select the weight and weave style which suits the demands of the job. The lighter the ounce weight of the fabric, the easier it will be to drape over highly contoured surfaces.
Lightweights also use less resin so the entire laminate remains lighter.
As the fabrics become heavier, they begin to become less flexible. The medium weights retain enough flexibility to drape over most contours and they begin to contribute significantly to the strength of the part. 6, 7.5, and 10 ounce fabrics are our most popular. They are very economical and produce strong and lightweight parts used in automotive, marine, and industrial applications. Woven roving is the heaviest reinforcement and is typically used in boat building and mold construction.