When is the appropriate time to demold a part?

Demolding a part at the appropriate time is crucial in composite manufacturing to ensure the structural integrity and quality of the part. The correct time to demold is when it has cooled to room temperature. This is because cooling allows the resin to fully cure and bond properly within the composite structure. Removing a part while it is still warm can lead to warping or deformation due to residual thermal stresses, which can compromise the physical properties of the composite.

When the part is at room temperature, any exothermic reaction associated with the curing process is complete, allowing the material to stabilize. This ensures that the part achieves its designed mechanical properties and dimensions, minimizing the risk of post-demolding issues such as cracking or warping during further processing or use.

The other considerations, such as when the resin has hardened to the touch or when it is still slightly warm, do not account for the full curing process and may result in problems. Immediate removal after layup could also damage the part before it has fully set. Therefore, adhering to the guideline of waiting until the part cools completely is the best practice for ensuring a quality composite part.