- What Are Composites?
Composites 101
Composites are the combination of two or more different materials, making them stronger and better.
Fibre + Resin
Composites consist of two components – fibres and resins. It’s this combination that gives composites their unique and differentiating properties.
Strong
Per pound, composites are appreciably stronger than steel. Fibres carry the load, while resins distribute weight.
Lightweight
Composites are lighter than most structural materials, and a fifth the weight of steel. Lighter objects are easier to transport and install.
Resistant
Composites are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them effective in areas exposed to salt water, chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Flexible
Composite components can be customised for each application, allowing for design flexibility and application on complicated shapes.
Durable
Composites last. They have a long life and require little maintenance.
Fuze Composites vs. Steel
How do our composites stack up against steel? See the table for a direct comparison.
FUZE composites are ultimately faster, cheaper and safer than steel alternatives.
| STEEL | FUZE | |
|---|---|---|
| Susceptible to ongoing corrosion | Yes | No |
| UV degradation issues | No | No |
| Rapid engineering (within hours) | No | Yes |
| Repairs live, live leaks or over clamps | No | Yes |
| No shut down, no hot work | No | Yes |
| Time to complete installation on site | 100% | 50% |
| Indicative total project cost | 100% | 40% |
| Class approved (ABS, Lloyds, DNV) | Yes | Yes |
| Inspection options (wide range, commercially available) | Yes | Yes |
Manufacturing Processes
There are three types of composite manufacturing processes, each with its own benefits.
Open Molding
Composite materials are placed in an open mold with air exposure to harden. Molds are inexpensive to create, so they're great for short production runs.
Closed Molding
Composite materials are cured inside a vacuum bag or two-sided mold, closed to air. Closed molding is useful for a two-sided finish and high production volumes.
Cast Polymer Molding
A mixture of resin and fillers are poured into an open or closed mold (typically without reinforcements) and left to cure or harden.
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