Composite Materials & Fibreglass FAQs
What are composite materials?
Composite materials are engineered materials made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. When combined, they produce a material with characteristics different from the individual components. The most common composites consist of reinforcement fibres (like fibreglass or carbon fibre) embedded in a resin matrix (such as epoxy or polyester).
What is fibreglass and how is it different from other composite materials?
fibreglass is a composite material made of fine glass fibres woven into a fabric and combined with a resin matrix. It’s one of the most widely used composite materials due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Compared to carbon fibre, fibreglass is more affordable and easier to work with, while still offering excellent performance for most applications.
What are the main advantages of using composite materials over traditional materials like steel or aluminium?
Key advantages include:
Lightweight: Composites can be 50-70% lighter than steel while maintaining comparable strength
Corrosion resistance: Naturally resistant to rust, chemicals, and environmental degradation
Design flexibility: Can be moulded into complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible with metals
Strength-to-weight ratio: Exceptional strength relative to their weight
Fatigue resistance: Better resistance to repeated stress cycles
Electrical insulation: Non-conductive properties in many applications
Low maintenance: Reduced need for ongoing maintenance and refinishing
How long do fibreglass and composite parts last?
With proper design and manufacturing, composite parts can last 20-50 years or more, depending on the application and environmental conditions. Marine applications often see 25-30 years of service life, while architectural and industrial applications can last even longer. The key factors affecting longevity include UV protection, resin selection, and proper installation.
Can composite parts be repaired if damaged?
Yes, most composite parts can be effectively repaired. Small chips, cracks, or holes can often be repaired to restore both structural integrity and appearance. Our team provides repair services and can assess whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution for your situation.
Are composites environmentally friendly?
Modern composite manufacturing has become increasingly environmentally conscious. Benefits include:
Longer lifespan reduces replacement frequency
Energy savings due to weight reduction in transportation applications
Recyclability – many composites can now be recycled into new products
Reduced maintenance chemicals and treatments over the product lifetime
Natural fibre options available for appropriate applications
What’s the difference between thermoset and thermoplastic composites?
Thermoset composites (like epoxy or polyester-based systems) cure into a permanent shape and cannot be re-melted. They typically offer excellent mechanical properties and are most commonly used in structural applications.
Thermoplastic composites can be heated and reshaped multiple times, making them recyclable and suitable for applications requiring reformability. They’re often used in automotive and consumer goods applications.
What is composite engineering
Composite engineering is the process of working with polyester and epoxy resins, fibreglass mat and cloth, carbon fibre and gelcoat.
About Working with The Composite Group
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide complimentary initial consultations to discuss your project requirements, assess feasibility, and provide preliminary guidance on materials, processes, and timelines. This no-obligation consultation helps us understand your needs and allows you to evaluate our capabilities.
What types of projects do you work on?
Marine applications: Boat hulls, decks, marine components
Architectural elements: Decorative panels, structural components, facades
Industrial components: Tanks, covers, housings, machinery parts
Transportation: Automotive, recreational vehicle, and specialty transport components
Custom fabrication: Prototypes, one-off pieces, artistic installations
Repair and restoration: Refurbishing existing composite parts
Swimming pools: Fibreglass pool linings and moulded shells for inground installation
What’s the minimum order quantity for custom parts?
We work with projects of all sizes, from single prototypes to high-volume production runs. There’s no strict minimum order quantity – we’re happy to discuss one-off custom pieces as well as large-scale manufacturing projects.
How long does a typical project take?
Project timelines vary significantly based on complexity, size, and manufacturing method:
Simple repairs: 1-2 weeks
Small custom parts: 2-4 weeks
Complex components: 4-8 weeks
Large-scale projects: 8-16 weeks or more
During our consultation, we’ll provide a realistic timeline based on your specific requirements and our current workload.
Do you work with customer-supplied designs or only create your own?
We work both ways! You can:
Bring your own designs: We’ll review for manufacturability and provide feedback
Collaborate on design: Work with our engineering team to refine and optimise your concepts
Start from scratch: Let our team develop the complete design based on your requirements
Reverse engineer: Recreate or improve upon existing parts
What file formats do you accept for CAD designs?
We work with most standard CAD formats including:
AutoCAD (.dwg, .dxf)
SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm)
STEP files (.stp, .step)
IGES files (.igs, .iges)
STL files for 3D printing reference
PDF technical drawings
If you have designs in other formats, please contact us – we can likely work with them or help convert them.
How do you ensure quality in your manufacturing process?
Our quality assurance includes:
Material inspection: All incoming materials are verified for specifications
Process control: Monitored temperature, pressure, and cure cycles
In-process inspection: Quality checkpoints throughout manufacturing
Final inspection: Comprehensive dimensional and visual inspection
Testing: Non-destructive testing and mechanical testing when required
Documentation: Complete quality records and traceability
Do you provide warranties on your work?
Yes, we stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties covering:
Materials: Defects in materials and workmanship
Manufacturing: Process-related issues
Performance: Meeting specified requirements when properly installed and maintained
Warranty terms vary by project type and application – we’ll discuss specific warranty coverage during project planning.
Can you help with installation of the finished parts?
Absolutely! Our installation support includes:
Technical guidance: On-site consultation and troubleshooting
Installation assistance: Hands-on help with complex installations
Training: Teaching your team proper handling and installation techniques
Documentation: Providing detailed installation instructions and best practices
What geographic areas do you serve?
While our manufacturing facility is located Christchurch, we serve customers nationwide and internationally. For local projects, we can provide on-site consultation and installation support. For distant projects, we work closely with local contractors and provide remote technical support.
How do I get a quote for my project?
Getting a quote is easy:
Contact us to schedule your free consultation
Provide project details: Drawings, specifications, quantity requirements
Discuss requirements: Timeline, quality standards, special considerations
Receive detailed quote: Comprehensive pricing with timeline and specifications
We typically provide quotes within 3-5 business days of receiving complete project information.
Do you offer rush or expedited services?
Yes, we can often accommodate rush projects depending on our current workload and the complexity of your requirements. Rush services may involve additional costs, but we’ll work with you to meet critical deadlines whenever possible.
What payment terms do you offer?
Our standard payment terms include:
Small projects: 50% deposit, 50% on completion
Larger projects: Milestone-based payments aligned with project phases
Established customers: Net 30 day terms available
Special arrangements: Available for long-term or high-volume projects
We accept various payment methods including checks, bank transfers, and major credit cards.
Can you sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)?
Yes, we regularly work under NDAs and confidentiality agreements. We understand that many projects involve proprietary designs or sensitive applications, and we’re committed to protecting your intellectual property and business information.
Do you provide material certifications and test reports?
Yes, we can provide:
Material certifications: Documentation of resin and fibre specifications
Process records: Cure cycle documentation and quality control records
Test reports: Mechanical testing, dimensional verification, and specialised testing
Compliance documentation: Industry-specific certifications when required
Still Have Questions?
If you don’t see your question answered here, we’re always happy to help! Contact us directly, or request a free consultation
Our experienced team is ready to discuss your specific composite manufacturing needs and provide expert guidance for your project.