Composite Material / Process Selection App

As experts in composite materials and processes, we've put together a material / process selection app. Based on FIVE different factors (Temperature, Part Size, Annual Volume, Stiffness and Lightweight), you will be able to identify the material / process that might be best suited for your project. Select the best option for each of the factors to view how best suited each of the 10 material / processes is for your project.

 

Use this as a guide to help validate a material / process OR to save hours of research by identifying where to look first.

 

We welcome any questions you may have. Feel free to give us a call at 586-336-5800 or email us to speak to a composite expert on your project.

 

TEMPERATURE

What is the maximum temperature requirement for your project?

One of the first things you need to consider when choosing a composite material / process is the temperature conditions in which your part will operate. Temperatures range from Extreme Cold (-40°C) to Extreme Heat (320°C).

⇨ Choose the closest MAXIMUM temperature your project will be exposed to.

-40° C -20° C 0° C Ambient 80° C 120° C 160° C 200° C 260° C 320° C +

PART SIZE

How large is your part?

The size of your part will help determine which process is the most feasible.

⇨ Select the closest option that matches your LARGEST dimension. For instance, if you have an 8' x 4' x 1' part, choose 8' below.

< 1′ 1′ 2′ 4′ 6′ 8′ 10′ 12′ 20′ > 20′

ANNUAL VOLUME

How many production parts do you need annually?

Some processes can better support high volume, while others are more suited for low volume.

⇨ Choose the best option that falls within your annual volume needs.

< 99 100-499 500-999 1,000 - 4,999 5,000 - 9,999 10,000 - 24,999 25,000 - 49,999 50,000 - 99,999 100,000 - 249,999 > 250,000

STIFFNESS

How Stiff do your parts need to be?

The stiffness of your part (the ability to bend) will affect its performance.

⇨ Choose a setting that best fits how flexible or stiff your part needs to be.

Sponge Rubber Bumper Vehicle Fender Hardwood Table I-Beam Ceramic

LIGHTWEIGHT

How important is lightweight to your project?

Lightweighting is a trend in many markets today. This will guage if it is important for your project. We covered factors Temperature, Part Size, Annual Volume and Stiffness.

⇨ Please select the importance of lightweighting relative to the other 4 factors. If all other factors (Temperature, Part Size, Annual Volume and Stiffness) are more important than Lightweight, choose Not important. If Lightweighting is more important than all other factors, choose Most Important.

Least Important Not Important Semi Important Very Important Most Important