Composites FAQ

These are some of the most common questions I receive via e-mail. If you have additional suggestions for the list, send them to me at composite.guide@about.com.

Composite Questions

Where can I find data on the size of the composites industry?

This data used to be tracked by SACMA, but that organization was absorbed by CFA and no longer exists. The Carbon Fiber Management Council, also part of CFA, is meant to take its place. but it has not really gotten started yet. In the meantime, CFA does publish some statistics. If you can afford it, there are several commercial market reports available.

Where can I find test standards for composites?

Most test standards are defined by ASTM International. You can search their entire standards catalog online by keyword or designation, but you can only view the first section (which describes the standard). You can purchase a copy online (PDF or fax). Most standards cost $15--$35, plus a $2--$5 or fax fee. The composite standards are maintained by Committe D30. By joining ASTM as a participating member for $75/year, you can receive one free volume of ASTM standards, in print or CD-ROM (composites are covered in Volume 15.03).

Where can I buy XXX material?

Material suppliers are listed in the Distributors categories in the Subjects library. Most individuals will probably be interested in the Catalog suppliers. Larger quantities can be ordered from the specialty suppliers or General Distributors. If you can't find what you're looking for in any of those lists, try the Thomas Register (in North America).

Where can I find someone to manufacture my product?

Like the last question, the answer is in the Subjects library, under the Manufacturers categories. And again, if you can't find it there, try the Thomas Register (in North America).

How do I calculate structural properties or tell if my part is going to break?

If you already know laminated plate theory, go directly to the Software page for a list of calculation packages. If you need to learn the theory, see my list of Recommended Books. My favorite introductory book is Engineering Mechanics of Composite Materials by Isaac M. Daniel and H. Thomas Hahn.

Can you recommend a good reference for manufacturing techniques?

There are a few references on the Recommended Books page. Also check out the How To listings.

Site Questions

How do I get my site listed?

Just send the URL to me at composite.guide@about.com. If the appropriate category is already on my site, I'll add the link within a few days. If I have to create a new category, I'll bump it up on my priority list.