Nylon Peel-Ply Fabric

Usage

Peel Ply fabrics may be used to build large composite structures or to facilitate small repairs where a clean, textured surface is desired for additional bonding and finishing operations. 

A Peel Ply layer also provides pressure to the GRP composite structure during fabrication and cure allowing gas to escape thereby eliminating blisters. Where Peel Ply fabric is used, the laminate will be smoother and will achieve a higher fiber to resin content thus increasing strength. Without Peel Ply, production of vacuum-formed laminates, especially composites made with epoxy/carbon/kevlar, is hardly possible. Furthermore, excellent non-skid surfaces can be obtained.

Processing

Generally, Peel Ply fabric is inserted as a final layer onto the laminate during fabrication then "peeled away" after cure. Peel Ply fabric will not combine with laminating resins and; therefore, should never be allowed to remain on the laminate.

Cramer Fabrics’ Peel Ply fabrics are woven with intermittent colored warp threads for identification to insure all Peel Ply material is removed after cure.

Laminates can be degassed perfectly since air pockets can be seen under the transparent Peel Ply layer. Air pockets can be eliminated with hand rollers and the escaping air will easily pass through the Peel Ply. Excess resin, which squeezes through Peel Ply, will accumulate on the Peel Ply surface and will be removed later when this fabric is stripped away.

Removal of Peel Ply fabric should be done with great care and pulled at acute angles from the laminate to avoid damage to the laminate and to insure complete separation of the fabric. More force may be required if the laminate is cured under vacuum pressure. In this case, it may be necessary to cut the Peel Ply into thin strips and pull in the warp direction as shown in  the illustrations below.

Non-Skid Surfaces

When a composite surface has been cured with a Peel Ply layer, a distinctive textile weave pattern will result. This finish has proven to be an excellent surface for applications where a non-skid feature, in the finished product, is desirable.

Transportation

In certain situations, a composite structure may be transported to another location for additional manufacturing operations. During transportation, Peel Ply fabric can be left on the surface to provide protection against humidity and dirt. Peel ply will also help to protect against abrasion or impact damage.

Summary

Many companies use Nylon and Polyester Peel Ply Fabrics manufactured by Cramer Fabrics Inc. where excellent processing, surface finish and release characteristics are required for production of high quality GRP products. For further information on available materials please contact Cramer Fabrics Inc.