Vacuum Infusion Technical Support

Vacuum infusion is a closed-mold composite manufacturing process used to produce high-quality fiberglass laminates with precise resin control, improved fiber ratios, and reduced emissions. When set up correctly, infusion delivers consistent, strong, and lightweight parts with excellent surface quality.

At Fiberglass Florida, we provide technical support for vacuum infusion projects ranging from small custom parts to large marine and industrial structures. Our goal is to help you choose the right materials, design an effective infusion setup, and avoid common infusion failures.

If you’re planning an infusion project or troubleshooting an existing process, contact our technical team by calling us or emailing orders@fiberglassflorida.com.

What Is Vacuum Infusion?

Vacuum infusion is a resin transfer process where dry fiberglass reinforcement is placed into a mold, sealed under a vacuum bag, and infused with resin using vacuum pressure. The resin is drawn through the laminate, fully wetting the fibers before curing.

Unlike hand lay-up or spray-up, vacuum infusion allows precise control of resin content, resulting in stronger laminates with less excess resin and reduced void content.

Key Benefits of Vacuum Infusion

• Improved fiber-to-resin ratios for stronger, lighter parts
• Consistent laminate thickness and quality
• Reduced air entrapment and voids
• Lower styrene emissions compared to open molding
• Cleaner work environment and improved repeatability

Resin Selection for Vacuum Infusion

Resins used for infusion must have low viscosity, controlled gel time, and predictable cure behavior. Resin selection is critical to successful flow and complete wet-out.

At Fiberglass Florida, we support infusion projects using:

• Vinyl Ester Resins for marine and structural applications requiring high strength, durability, and water resistance
• Polyester Infusion Resins for cost-sensitive applications where process efficiency and surface quality are priorities

Resin working time must be matched to part size, flow distance, ambient temperature, and infusion strategy.

Reinforcements & Core Materials

Vacuum infusion is compatible with a wide range of fiberglass reinforcements and core materials. Proper selection ensures consistent flow and structural performance.

• Stitched fiberglass fabrics, biaxial, triaxial, and quad-axial cloths
• Woven fabrics and specialty reinforcement layers
• Foam, balsa, and composite core materials designed for infusion
• Peel ply layers for secondary bonding and surface preparation

Vacuum Infusion Consumables

Infusion success depends heavily on correct consumable selection and placement.

• Flow media to distribute resin evenly across the laminate
• Vacuum bagging film appropriate for part size and temperature
• Sealant tape to maintain airtight vacuum integrity
• Spiral wrap, feed lines, and vacuum lines for controlled resin flow
• Resin traps to protect vacuum pumps

Vacuum Integrity & Leak Control

Maintaining full vacuum integrity is essential before introducing resin. Even small leaks can cause incomplete wet-out or voids in the laminate.

• Perform leak checks before infusion
• Verify stable vacuum levels across the entire mold
• Inspect sealant tape, bag folds, and fittings
• Monitor vacuum throughout the infusion process

Common Vacuum Infusion Issues We Help Solve

• Dry spots or incomplete fiber wet-out
• Race tracking or uneven resin flow
• Resin gelling before full infusion
• Vacuum leaks or bag failures
• Excess resin consumption or inconsistent laminate thickness

Vacuum Infusion vs Open Molding

Vacuum infusion offers superior laminate control compared to hand lay-up and spray-up, but requires additional planning and setup.

• Vacuum Infusion: Higher material efficiency, cleaner process, better structural performance
• Open Molding: Simpler setup, faster for small or non-critical parts

Need Help With a Vacuum Infusion Project?

If you’re designing an infusion setup, selecting materials, or troubleshooting resin flow issues, our technical team is here to help.

Email: orders@fiberglassflorida.com
Call us to speak with our technical team before you infuse

Fiberglass Florida — expert vacuum infusion support, trusted materials, and real-world composite experience.