1,Personal Protective Measures
Advanced composite materials, including prepregs, resin systems, cleaning solvents, and adhesives, may pose hazards. It is vital to equip with personal protective equipment (PPE). It is essential to read and comprehend Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and handle all chemicals, resins, and fibers appropriately. MSDS lists hazardous chemicals in the material system and outlines their potential risks. These substances may act as respiratory irritants, carcinogens, or other dangerous substances.
2,Eye Protection
Always safeguard your eyes from chemicals and flying objects. Safety glasses should be worn at all times, and a face shield should be utilized when mixing or pouring acids. Never wear corrective contact lenses in the workplace, even when wearing safety glasses, as some chemical solvents can melt lenses and damage eyes. Dust can also accumulate beneath lenses, causing further damage.
3,Respiratory Protection
Avoid inhaling carbon fiber dust and ensure adequate ventilation in the workplace. When working in confined spaces, respiratory assistance equipment must be used. Utilize a vacuum cleaner to eliminate dust from the air near the source. A dust mask or respirator is necessary when sanding or painting. A properly installed dust mask can provide the required protection. For paint applications, a sealed respirator with the appropriate filter or a fresh air supply respirator is required.
4,Down-Draft Tables
A down-draft table is an effective and economical device that safeguards workers from harmful dust generated by sanding and grinding operations. These tables are also beneficial for organizing tools as most particulate materials generated during processing are promptly collected for disposal. The size and maintenance of down-draft tables should ensure an average surface flow rate between 100 and 150 cubic feet per minute. Down-draft tables draw contaminants such as dust and fibers away from the operator's work area. Regular monitoring of down-draft tables and filter replacements are essential to provide maximum protection and particulate collection.
5,Skin Protection
Protect your skin from harmful substances during composite repair work. Chemicals can persist on the skin and cause burns. Always wear gloves and clothing that offer protection against toxic substances. Only approved gloves that protect the skin without contaminating the composite material should be used. Wash hands before using the restroom or eating. Handle damaged composite components with care, as individual fibers can easily penetrate, shed, and become embedded in the skin.
6,Fire Safety
Most solvents are flammable. When not in use, close all solvent containers and store them in a fire-resistant cabinet. Keep solvents away from areas where static electricity may be generated. Static electricity can occur during sanding operations or when unpacking bagged materials. Pneumatic tools are recommended. If electric tools are used, ensure they are enclosed. Avoid mixing too much resin, as it can overheat and start smoking due to an exothermic process. Ensure a fire extinguisher is always nearby.
7,Operational Norms
7.1 Storage and Handling
Thermoplastic sheets infused with resin can soften and deform when heated, so they must be stored in areas where the temperature remains moderate. Store them in a cool, dry place away from heating coils, radiators, or steam pipes, and avoid exposure to smoke in spray paint rooms or paint storage areas.
Avoid exposing clear films with paper overlays to direct sunlight, as sunlight can accelerate adhesive degradation, causing them to stick to the plastic and making removal difficult.
Store plastic sheets with masking paper in containers at an angle of 10° from the vertical to prevent bending. If sheets are stored horizontally, ensure there is no dirt or debris between them. The height of stacked sheets should not exceed 18 inches, with smaller sheets placed on top of larger ones to prevent unsupported hanging. Place masking paper on the sheets for extended periods, taking care not to let them rub against each other or slide on rough or dirty surfaces to prevent scratching or damaging the sheets.
Use adequate support to store molded parts to maintain their shape. Avoid vertical nesting. Protect molded components from temperatures above 120°F (49°C) and retain their protective coating until installation on the aircraft.
Source "Composites Frontier" Public Website