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Fiberglass cloth can be classified based on several factors, including weave type, fiber composition, weight, coating, and application. Below is a detailed classification:
1. By Weave Type
The weave pattern affects strength, flexibility, and appearance.
Weave Type | Description | Common Uses |
Plain Weave | Simplest pattern (over-under), balanced, good stability | General-purpose insulation, composites |
Twill Weave | Diagonal pattern, more flexible & drapable than plain weave | Aerospace, marine, high-strength parts |
Satin Weave | Fewer interlacings, smooth surface, high flexibility | Molded composites, decorative finishes |
Leno Weave | Locked warp fibers, prevents unraveling, open mesh | Reinforcement for thin structures |
Unidirectional | Fibers run mostly in one direction for max strength in that axis | Structural beams, wind turbine blades |
2. By Fiber Composition
Different glass types offer varying properties.
Type | Properties | Applications |
E-Glass | Standard, electrical insulation, good strength & corrosion resistance | General composites, circuit boards |
S-Glass | Higher tensile strength & heat resistance than E-glass | Aerospace, military, ballistic armor |
C-Glass | Chemical-resistant, used in corrosive environments | Chemical tanks, pipelines |
AR-Glass | Alkali-resistant for concrete reinforcement | Construction (GFRC, stucco mesh) |
3. By Weight (oz/yd² or g/m²)
Fiberglass cloth weight affects thickness and durability.
Weight Range | Thickness | Typical Uses |
0.5–3 oz/yd² | Very thin, lightweight | PCB reinforcement, delicate repairs |
4–10 oz/yd² | Medium weight | Marine hulls, automotive parts, roofing |
>10 oz/yd² | Heavy-duty | Structural reinforcement, industrial uses |
4. By Coating/Treatment
Coatings enhance performance for specific needs.
Coating Type | Purpose | Applications |
Silane | Improves adhesion to resins | Fiberglass-reinforced plastics (FRP) |
PTFE (Teflon) | Non-stick, heat-resistant (up to 500°F/260°C) | High-temperature conveyor belts |
Fire Retardant | Self-extinguishing, meets safety standards (e.g., ASTM E84) | Fire curtains, protective clothing |
Vinyl-Coated | Waterproof, UV-resistant | Truck tarps, awnings |
5. By Application
Application | Preferred Fiberglass Cloth Type |
Composite Layup | Satin weave E-glass (6–10 oz/yd²) for resin infusion |
Electrical Insulation | Plain weave E-glass (thin, silane-coated) |
Marine Repair | Biaxial or triaxial weave (waterproof, heavy-duty) |
High-Temperature | S-glass or PTFE-coated cloth (heat shields, exhaust wraps) |
Automotive | Lightweight twill weave (carbon-fiber look for panels) |
6. Specialty Fiberglass Cloths
Warp-Knitted Fiberglass – Stretchable for complex molds.
Aramid-Fiber Hybrid – Combines fiberglass with Kevlar for impact resistance.
Copper-Clad Fiberglass – For EMI/RFI shielding in electronics.
Key Considerations When Choosing Fiberglass Cloth
Temperature Needs: E-glass (600°F) vs. S-glass (1000°F).
Strength Requirements: Unidirectional for load-bearing parts.
Chemical Exposure: C-glass for acids/alkalis.
Flexibility: Satin weave for curved surfaces.
Consult Your RIGHT Composite Products Experts
