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Resin & Vacuum Infusion
Controlled Resin Flow with Heli-Tube® Spiral Cable Wrap
Resin infusion and vacuum bagging are composite manufacturing processes that produce high-strength, lightweight parts by controlling resin distribution under vacuum. These processes rely on consistent flow paths to fully saturate reinforcement materials and achieve repeatable results.
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap is used within these setups as a resin flow aid, helping guide resin through the mold while maintaining consistent distribution across complex geometries.
Understanding the Resin Infusion Process
In vacuum infusion, dry reinforcement materials such as fiberglass are placed into a mold and sealed under a vacuum bag. Resin is then introduced and drawn through the material under vacuum.
For the process to be successful, resin must flow evenly across the entire part. Inconsistent flow can lead to defects that compromise structural performance.
Talk to an Application Specialist
Review your vacuum infusion process and identify the right Heli-Tube® material, size, and configuration to improve resin flow and consistency.
Common Challenges in Resin Infusion
Without defined flow channels, resin infusion processes can experience:
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Incomplete wet-out of reinforcement materials
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Resin pooling or uneven distribution
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Restricted flow paths under vacuum pressure
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Extended cycle times and increased material usage
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Rework due to voids or structural inconsistencies
Where Heli-Tube® Fits in the Process
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap is typically positioned beneath or alongside resin feed lines within the vacuum bag.
Its spiral geometry creates consistent pathways that allow resin to travel efficiently from the feed source into and across the mold surface. This helps ensure resin reaches corners, edges, and other difficult areas.
Process Benefits of Heli-Tube® Spiral Wrap
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap supports a wide range of marine and boatbuilding applications:
Controlled Resin Flow
Creates defined channels that guide resin distribution throughout the part
Improved Process Efficiency
Supports faster, more uniform resin movement and reduced cycle times
Consistent Saturation
Helps minimize voids and dry areas by promoting even material wet-out
Adaptability Within the Mold
Conforms to complex shapes, curves, and part geometries
Reusable Between Cycles
Applies quickly and can be repositioned as needed for repeatable setups
Material Options for Process Requirements
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap is available in multiple materials to match the demands of resin infusion environments:
Polyethylene
General-purpose performance with broad chemical resistance
Nylon
Higher temperature capability and abrasion resistance
PTFE
Chemically inert with a wide temperature range
Available in a range of diameters, pitches, and colors to support process consistency and identification.
Supporting Repeatable Composite Manufacturing
Resin infusion depends on controlled, repeatable flow behavior. Variability in resin distribution can impact both product quality and production efficiency.
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap provides a reliable method for establishing consistent flow paths, helping manufacturers improve process control and achieve more uniform results across production runs.
FAQs
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap acts as a resin flow aid within vacuum infusion setups. It creates consistent pathways that guide resin across the mold, improving saturation and reducing the likelihood of voids or dry areas.
Heli-Tube® is typically installed beneath or alongside resin feed lines inside the vacuum bag. This placement helps direct resin into all areas of the part, including complex geometries.
Heli-Tube® spiral cable wrap is available in Polyethylene, Nylon, and PTFE, allowing it to meet a range of temperature, chemical, and environmental requirements.
Yes. Heli-Tube® wraps on quickly and can be removed and reused when process conditions allow, supporting efficient and repeatable production setups.
By promoting uniform resin flow, Heli-Tube® helps reduce defects such as voids and uneven saturation, contributing to more consistent structural performance.