Pultrusion is a continuous manufacturing process that converts carbon fiber into profiles. The term combines “pull” and “extrusion”; pultrusion is a method to pull the material, while extrusion pushes the material. The pultrusion process involves impregnating reinforcement materials, such as fibers, woven strands, and braided strands, with resin and pulling them through a heated stationary die where the resin undergoes polymerization. The impregnation is either done by pulling the reinforcement through a bath or by using resin from an injection chamber connected to the die.

Pultrusion resins

A range of resin types can be used in pultrusion, including polyester, polyurethane, vinyl ester, and epoxy. Resin provides the resistance to environmental factors, including corrosion resistance, UV resistance, fire resistance, and impact resistance, while the fiber provides strength. A surface veil can also be added to protect against erosion and provide further corrosion and UV resistance.

Industries using products manufactured by pultrusion

• Agriculture
• Chemical
• Construction
• Aerospace
• Sports
• Electrical engineering
• Automotive