Composite Tooling
Tool selection matrix
Tool choice combines part material, cure cycle, pressure, size, tolerance, production volume, heat-up rate and maintenance.
In simple terms
Tool choice combines part material, cure cycle, pressure, size, tolerance, production volume, heat-up rate and maintenance.
Best for
Selecting prototype, short-series and production tooling.
Watch out for
Maximum temperature and cycle life are grade- and construction-specific; supplier qualification overrides family-level guidance.
Typical applications
Autoclave, oven, infusion, RTM and room-temperature moulding.
Related tools
Use the calculators to turn these concepts into preliminary engineering estimates.