Vacuum Bagging: Release Film Not Perforated

Nonperforated (solid) release film, by contrast, prevents resin from flowing through the film. It acts as a barrier between the laminate and the bagging materials, preventing resin from escaping into the breather cloth or other components of the vacuum bagging stack. This is particularly useful when working with prepregs, high-flow resins, or applications where precise resin content control is critical. The film helps maintain the desired resin content within the laminate while preventing the breather cloth from adhering to the part. In essence, nonporous release film is designed to prevent bonding with the resin and serves as the first barrier between the laminate and the vacuum bagging materials.

Key Tips

If resin is seeping into or bonding with your breather cloth or flow media, consider adding a release film layer to the layup.

• For infusion or debulking processes: Use perforated release film. Its small holes allow excess resin to pass through and drain into the breather cloth.
• For prepregs or applications requiring resin containment: Use nonperforated release film. It prevents resin from passing through the film, helping maintain resin content and achieve a clean part surface.
• Release film can help resolve resin flow and bonding issues, improve process control, and increase the yield and consistency of your composite parts.