Pultrusion

An automated, continuous process for manufacturing composite rods, tubes and structural shapes having a constant cross-section. Roving and other reinforcements are saturated with resin and continuously pulled through a heated die, where the part is formed and cured. The cured part is then cut to length.

Pultrusion Process

The process begins when reinforcing fibres are pulled from a series of creels. The fibres proceed through a bath, where they are impregnated with formulated resin. The resin-impregnated fibres are preformed to the shape of the profile to be produced. This composite material is then passed through a heated steel die that has been machined precisely to the final shape of the part to be manufactured. Heat initiates an exothermic reaction thus curing the thermosetting resin matrix. The profile is continuously pulled and exits the mould as a hot, constant cross sectional member. The profile cools in ambient or forced air, or assisted by water. The product emerges from the puller mechanism and is cut to the desired length by an automatic, flying cutoff saw.