Vacuum Mesh / Infusion Mesh
Flow media and breather mesh for optimized resin distribution
What is the role of breather mesh in the laminate structure?
A breather mesh – also referred to as a flow media or breather fabric – is a core component of the vacuum lay-up in resin infusion processes. It is placed between the perforated film and the vacuum bagging film, ensuring a uniform resin flow across the entire laminate surface. At the same time, it enables continuous air evacuation toward the vacuum outlet, reducing the risk of air entrapment. The open structure of HDPE mesh supports efficient venting and contributes to a homogeneous laminate structure. In combination with other vacuum consumables, it helps establish a reliable and reproducible laminate build-up. The green color enhances visual placement control during the lay-up.
Which variants are available from HP-Textiles?
HP-Textiles offers two optimized variants in the field of flow media and breather mesh: HP-IM145/100 has a basis weight of 145 g/m², a thickness of 1.15 mm, and offers excellent drapeability, making it suitable for complex geometries and smaller parts. HP-IM230/120, with 200 g/m² and 1.00 mm thickness, features a more stable structure and lies flat – ideal for large and even laminate surfaces. Both materials are made of chemically resistant HDPE and are temperature resistant up to 120 °C. They are compatible with perforated release films, resin absorbers, peel ply, and other vacuum process materials – depending on the composite system and part requirements.
How is breather mesh used in the process?
In the vacuum infusion process, the HDPE breather mesh is placed directly on top of the perforated film. The vacuum bagging film is applied as the final layer. During infusion, the breather fabric promotes even resin distribution and allows for the unimpeded evacuation of air through the laminate stack. Depending on the version, the mesh conforms to curved, angular, or flat surfaces. The drapeable variant is suitable for complex part geometries, while the flat version is ideal for large GFRP and CFRP laminates. After curing, the consumable mesh can be easily removed without residue, facilitating post-processing and preserving the laminate surface.
Which applications are breather meshes suitable for?
Flow media and breather meshes are used in composite manufacturing processes involving vacuum infusion with GFRP or CFRP. Typical areas of application include mold making, lightweight construction, series production of technical parts, model building, and prototype development. These materials ensure a uniform resin flow, prevent air pockets, and help optimize the fiber volume content within the laminate. Both variants – the highly drapeable 145 g/m² breather mesh and the flat 200 g/m² breather grid – are available in the Flow Media / Breather Mesh category of the HP-Textiles online shop and can be integrated flexibly into existing vacuum process setups.