It’s gonna be sexy! 😛
You are right about the female mould and internal bladder, I looked into that for a similar project. It’s the same tech that is used in manufacturing carbon fiber bikes. There are some cool vids on youtube of it. And actually most of the most expensive and advanced frames are made here in China. I suspect, like every high end international company, that Scott, Trek, etc, etc, has very strict quality control staff on the ground here…
But no doubt the technique makes beautiful parts and I had been wondering how C4 did their guns.
Problem is that the moulds are really, really expensive. The setup is rather large with pressurized air systems and the huge heated presses that keep the mould together when the bladder is inflated.
Some also use a silicone core instead of a bladder and of a type which expands when the mould is heated.But if C4 can make it viable, then maybe it is doable. Let me know;-)
An industrial mould for 1000+ pieces can be done for 300-400 EUR.
A heated mould is not necessary unless you need 2-3 pieces per shift with epoxy or 2 pieces per hour with vinilester resins.
Pressure is only 60psi so no press needed if you use a bladder: with expanding core the pressure is higher… but i have my little secret so no costly press needed.
For a heated mold add 500 USD for heating mat and controller.
Overall the cost of mold and consumables shoul not be more than 1.5-2 EUR per piece.
For small quantities (100-200) a much cheaper polyester mold can be done for less than 1000 kr.
Going fishing now so no pics this evening 😉
