Why Vacuum Pumps Matter in Composite Manufacturing

Effective vacuum pressure removes trapped air, consolidates laminate layers, and optimises fibre-to-resin ratios. A properly matched vacuum pump delivers:

  • Even, uniform pressure across the entire laminate

  • Improved bond strength and reduced void content

  • Consistent laminate thickness and superior cosmetic finish

  • Optimised resin usage with reduced material waste

  • Enhanced overall structural and mechanical performance

The size and geometry of the mould, the materials being processed, and the selected manufacturing method all influence the vacuum requirements of a successful layup. ATL works with customers to ensure the correct BUSCH pump is specified for each application—removing guesswork and protecting production outcomes.

Supported by ATL. Powered by BUSCH.

By combining BUSCH’s German engineering excellence with ATL’s deep composites expertise and local technical support, customers receive a vacuum solution engineered for consistent performance, proven reliability, and long-term operational value.

ATL pumps are supplied fully prepared and ready for immediate use, fitted as standard with a liquid-filled vacuum gauge, release valve, cassette filter, and 3/8″ hose barb connector. Each unit is pre-wired for 220 V operation and supplied with a 3-pin plug, ensuring seamless integration into workshop and production environments.

 

Choosing the Right Pump

Selecting the correct pump depends on several key factors:

1. Process Type

Different processes place different demands on pump performance:

  • Vacuum bagging

  • Resin infusion

  • Veneer bonding

  • Core bonding

  • Degassing 

Large hulls, decks, panels, or deep moulds require higher flow rates to evacuate air effectively.

ATL can assist you in determining the appropriate pump output, flow rate, and system configuration based on your specific project requirements.

ATL Pump Range

Our range includes:

  • Oil-lubricated rotary vane pumps for reliable, deep vacuum levels

  • Dry rotary vane pumps for clean, low-maintenance operation

All pumps are supported with connectors, hoses, fittings, vacuum gauges, catch-pots, and system accessories designed for safe and effective operation.

Performance You Can Trust

With decades of experience in composite engineering and manufacturing, ATL Composites ensures every pump meets strict performance standards for accuracy, reliability, and long-term operation in harsh workshop environments.

V78 – Busch Seco Dry Vane (Oil-Free) Vacuum Pumps

Dry-running rotary vane vacuum pumps and compressors

Compact, reliable and extremely powerful – these are the stand-out features of SECO dry-running rotary vane vacuum pumps and compressors. Due to their lubricant-free operating principle, they can be used in many industrial applications where rapid, clean vacuum or compressed air is required. The SECO family consists of vacuum pumps and compressors.

Model Pump Capacity (m³/hr) Vacuum Level (hPa) Noise (dB) Weight (kg) Dimensions (mm)
V78008 8 150 65 8.5 245 × 164 × 125
V78010 10 150 60 21 413 × 260 × 220
V78016 16 150 60 25 436 × 256 × 224
V78025 25 120 60 31 282 × 284 × 495
V78040 40 120 65 38 282 × 289 × 545

The reliable and oil-free compressor

Selecting the correct pump depends on several key factors:

  • Dry-running rotary vane overpressure technology
  • Reliable oil-free vacuum generation
  • Robust construction
  • Lifetime-lubricated bearings
  • Compact dimensions
  • State-of-the-art precision manufacturing
Seco Sv Busch Pump Atl Composites

Benefits of SECO SV 78 Series

SECO SV dry-running rotary vane vacuum pumps are the ideal choice for any application where reliable, oil-free vacuum is required. They are perfectly suited for use in pick and place applications for clamping and holding, the medical, electronic, packaging and printing industry.

Thanks to self-lubricating rotor vanes, no operating fluid is necessary, ensuring a completely dry operation.

Their compact dimensions allow installation to be carried out almost anywhere with ease.

V79 – Busch R5 Oil-Lubricated Vacuum Pumps

Oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pumps

Designed for processes requiring deeper, more stable vacuum levels, the V79 Series delivers the higher performance essential for efficient vacuum infusion processing. These pumps provide strong, consistent vacuum pressure suitable for large components, multi-line infusions and demanding composite structures.

ModelPump Capacity (m³/hr)Vacuum Level (hPa)Noise (dB)Weight (kg)Dimensions (mm)
v790202126234263 x 284 x 546
V79025250.56234263 x 284 x 546
V79040400.56438263 x 284 x 610

R5 RA

The all-rounder for countless vacuum applications

  • High performance
  • Durable construction
  • Designed for continuous operation
  • Ultimate pressure-proofed
  • High performance vanes

R5 Ra 0100 Vacuum Pump Atl Composites

Benefits of SECO SV 78 Series

R5 RA oil-lubricated rotary vane vacuum pumps are real all-rounders. They have been designed for a wide range of industrial applications, for example vacuum packaging, food processing, pneumatic conveying, plastics processing and many more.

These vacuum pumps are characterized by high pumping speeds even in low pressure ranges and therefore rapid evacuation times.

They feature highly durable high performance vanes as standard, ensuring excellent performance and a long service life.

R5 RA vacuum pumps are designed for continuous operation. An integrated float valve regulates the oil return depending on the oil level.

Vacuum pumps of the RA series are ultimate pressure-proofed. They can be operated continuously at ultimate pressure without overheating.

Need Help Selecting the Right Pump?

Choosing the correct vacuum system is essential for achieving predictable, high-quality results.

Contact ATL Composites for recommendations tailored to your mould size, process type, material selection, and production schedule.

Vacuum Pumps
ProductBrandThickness (mm)Width (mm)Length (m)Maximum Use Temperature
AT-200Y Sealant Tape – YellowAIRTECH312.715.2204 °C
ST12 Sealant Tape – GreyATL2.5121580 °C
AIRTECH - AT200Y Sealant Tape - Yellow

Tubing & Spiral Wraps

Product Brand Diameter Length M
1/2″ POLYETHYLENE TUBE ATL 3/8″ 50M
5/8″ POLYETHYLENE TUBE ATL 1/2″ 50M
12mm SPIRAL WARP ATL 12mm 20M
16mm SPIRAL WARP ATL 16mm 20M
Infusion Resin Connector 12.7mm AIRTECH 12.7 N/A
Infusion Resin Connector 16mm AIRTECH 16 N/A
Barbed T-Joints 8mm ATL 8 N/A
Barbed T-Joints 12mm ATL 12 N/A

Vacuum Bagging Equipment & Accessories

ProductBrandWidth MLength M
Vacuum Bagging Breach KitAIRTECHN/AN/A
Vacuum Bagging Transducer KitAIRTECHN/AN/A
Vacuum Gauge Kit 100 kPaATLN/AN/A
Resin Infusion Connectors – 12.7mmAIRTECHN/AN/A
Resin Infusion Connectors – 16mmAIRTECHN/AN/A
AIRTECH - RESIN INFUSION CONNECTOR
Product Properties
  • Viscosity (48 hrs):
    • Minimum: 80,000 cps

    • Maximum: 160,000 cps
      (Brookfield viscometer, #6 spindle @ 4 rpm, 70–75°F)

  • Weight per Gallon: 9–10 lb/gal (±0.5)
    (Sold by volume; weight varies based on production conditions.)
    • % Moisture: 42.43–45.43%
    • % Solids: 39.47–42.47%
    • % Binders: 14.10–16.10%
  • Abrasive Profile:
    • 80% at 40 microns

    • 10% < 40 microns

    • 10% > 40 microns

  • Colour: White
  • Base: Water-based, silica-free polishing emulsion

Key Features

Swirl Mark-Free Finish

Removes haze and swirl marks left by compounding to produce a true, high-gloss final surface.

Simple dab-and-buff process using a fine polishing pad and controlled water mist.

Requires significantly less product per square foot compared to competing polishes.

Low-mess, low-odor formulation that stays cool during polishing with added water mist.

Uses precision-graded abrasives for consistent, professional finishing results.

Works on gelcoat, composite surfaces, Duratec primers/topcoats, metals and painted surfaces.

Why Choose Duratec® Cutting & Polishing Systems?

Fast Cutting Performance

Formulated to deliver true clarity and high-gloss finishes with minimal colour shift or haze, ensuring premium visual presentation.

Rapid-build coatings that can be sanded and polished to a flawless, ultra-smooth surface ideal for moulding or finishing workflows.

Deep substrate wetting improves adhesion, reduces porosity, and enhances the performance of subsequent finishing layers.

Rapid gelling and quick sanding times help fabricators accelerate plug and pattern preparation while maintaining surface accuracy.

Compatible with polyester, vinyl ester and most epoxy systems, depending on product selection—supporting a broad range of manufacturing processes.

High thermal stability and strong mechanical properties deliver long-lasting surface integrity for industrial and marine applications.

Applications

Aqua-Buff® 2000 is ideal for:

  • Final high-gloss polishing of composite plugs, patterns, moulds and masters

  • Eliminating swirl marks after using Aqua-Buff 1000F or 1000W

  • Refining 1000-grit+ sanded surfaces to a gloss-ready finish

  • Restoring gloss on gelcoat and painted surfaces

  • Polishing Duratec topcoats and primers

  • Refreshing oxidized gelcoat without leaving residue or discoloration

  • Marine, automotive, industrial & composite manufacturing workflows requiring a consistent, premium finish

Recommended Use:

  • Use with a fine polishing pad or foam pad for ultimate clarity

  • Apply with a rotary buffer at ~1750 rpm (half speed compared to compounding)

  • Light water misting ensures cooling, lubrication and even abrasive breakdown

  • Wash surface after polishing for a clean, true-gloss finish

Performance You Can Trust

ATL Composites stocks a comprehensive range of Duratec coating systems and support materials, backed by technical expertise and industry-leading application knowledge. Our team can assist with product selection, processing recommendations and integration into marine, industrial or composite manufacturing workflows.

DS AquaBuff 2000 Polishing Compound

Key Features & Benefits

Primerless MMA technology

Minimal surface preparation for faster, lower-cost assembly

Ideal for high-speed production and short clamp times

Excellent impact, peel, shear, and fatigue resistance

Controlled application on vertical and overhead joints

Bonds composites, metals, and thermoplastics, including dissimilar materials

Reliable performance in harsh service conditions

Enables replacement of mechanical fixings in structural joints

Mechanical Properties (Cured)

(Laboratory tested)

  • Tensile Strength: ~22–25 MPa

  • Tensile Modulus: ~1200–1700 MPa

  • Tensile Elongation: ~25–30%

  • Aluminium Lap Shear: ~17–22 MPa

  • Recommended Operating Temperature: −40°C to 100°C

 

Typical Application Properties

  • Working Time: ~10–20 minutes

  • Fixture Time: ~30–45 minutes

  • Gap Filling Capability: 1–5 mm (0.04–0.20 in)

  • Mixed Colour: Off-white or black

  • Recommended Application Temperature: 18–25°C (64–77°F)

  • Specific Gravity: ~1.00–1.03 g/cc

  • Mix Ratio:

    • By volume: 1:1

    • By weight: 1:1

  • Shelf Life: 9 months (stored as recommended)

Substrate Compatibility

Crestabond® M7-15 provides strong adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including:

  • Composites: GRP / FRP, carbon fibre laminates, vinyl ester and polyester composites

  • Metals: Aluminium, stainless steel, carbon steel, zinc and galvanised steels

  • Thermoplastics: ABS, PVC, acrylics, and common engineering plastics

(For low-surface-energy plastics such as PP or PE, consult ATL for suitable alternatives.)

Applications

Crestabond® M7-15 is recommended for:

  • Structural bonding of composite assemblies

  • Bonding composites to metals and thermoplastics

  • Marine, transport, rail, and industrial fabrication

  • Large or complex bonded joints

  • Applications requiring extended open time and high toughness

Processing & Application

Crestabond® M7-15 is supplied as a two-component cartridge or bulk system.

  • Ensure substrates are clean, dry, and free from contamination

  • Light abrasion may improve long-term bond durability on aged surfaces

  • Dispense until a uniform mixed colour is achieved before bonding

  • Complete assembly within the stated working time

  • Maintain recommended application temperatures throughout cure

Although primerless, application trials are recommended for unfamiliar substrates or critical load-bearing joints.

Packaging & Storage

Packaging options:

      • 400 ml co-axial cartridges

      • 1:1 Static Mixers avaiable 

Storage:
Store between 2°C and 23°C (36–73°F) in original, unopened containers.
Protect from freezing and direct sunlight.

 

Certifications

  • EN 45545-2
  • Class NK
  •  

ATL Technical Support

ATL Composites provides adhesive selection guidance, substrate compatibility advice, and process optimisation support to ensure Crestabond® M7-15 delivers fast, reliable, and durable structural bonds in your production environment.

Crestabond® M7-15 ADHESIVE CARTRIDGE

Key Features & Benefits

Primerless MMA technology

Minimal surface preparation for faster, lower-cost assembly

Ideal for high-speed production and short clamp times

Excellent impact, peel, shear, and fatigue resistance

Controlled application on vertical and overhead joints

Bonds composites, metals, and thermoplastics, including dissimilar materials

Reliable performance in harsh service conditions

Enables bonding of dissimilar materials without mechanical fixings

Mechanical Properties (Cured)

(Laboratory tested)

  • Tensile Strength: ~22–25 MPa

  • Tensile Modulus: ~1200–1700 MPa

  • Tensile Elongation: ~25–30%

  • Aluminium Lap Shear: ~17–22 MPa

  • Recommended Operating Temperature: −40°C to 100°C

Typical Application Properties

  • Working Time: ~4–7 minutes

  • Fixture Time: ~18–22 minutes

  • Gap Filling Capability: 1–5 mm (0.04–0.20 in)

  • Mixed Colour: Off-white (also available in black)

  • Recommended Application Temperature: 18–25°C (64–77°F)

  • Specific Gravity: ~1.00–1.03 g/cc

  • Mix Ratio:

    • By volume: 1:1

    • By weight: 1:1

  • Shelf Life: 9 months (stored as recommended)

Substrate Compatibility

Crestabond® M7-05 provides excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including:

  • Composites: GRP / FRP, carbon fibre laminates, vinyl ester and polyester composites

  • Metals: Aluminium, stainless steel, carbon steel, zinc / galvanised steels

  • Thermoplastics: ABS, PVC, acrylics, and common engineering plastics

(For low-surface-energy plastics such as PP or PE, consult ATL for suitable alternatives.)

Applications

Crestabond® M7-05 is recommended for:

  • Structural bonding of composite assemblies

  • Bonding composites to metals and thermoplastics

  • Marine, transport, rail, and industrial fabrication

  • Vertical and complex bonded joints

  • High-speed production environments

Its balanced strength, toughness, and rapid cure make it suitable for a wide range of demanding structural and industrial applications.

Processing & Application

Crestabond® M7-05 is supplied as a two-component cartridge or bulk system.

  • Ensure substrates are clean, dry, and free from contamination

  • Light abrasion may improve long-term bond durability on aged surfaces

  • Dispense until a uniform mixed colour is achieved before bonding

  • Complete assembly within the stated working time

  • Maintain recommended application temperatures throughout cure

Although primerless, application trials are recommended for unfamiliar substrates or critical load-bearing joints.

Packaging & Storage

Packaging options:

      • 400 ml co-axial cartridges

      • 1:1 Static Mixers avaiable 

Storage:
Store between 2°C and 23°C (36–73°F) in original, unopened containers.
Protect from freezing and direct sunlight.

 

Certifications

  • EN 45545-2
  • Class NK
  •  

ATL Technical Support

ATL Composites provides adhesive selection guidance, substrate compatibility advice, and process optimisation support to ensure Crestabond® M7-05 delivers fast, reliable, and durable structural bonds in your production environment.

Crestabond® M7-05 ADHESIVE CARTRIDGE

Key Features & Benefits

Primerless MMA technology

Bonds a wide range of substrates with minimal surface preparation

Excellent shear, peel, impact, and fatigue resistance

Improves throughput and reduces clamp times

Ideal for vertical and overhead applications

 Bonds effectively from 1–25 mm

 Reliable performance from -40°C to 100°C

Enables bonding of dissimilar materials without mechanical fixings

Mechanical Properties (Cured)

(Laboratory tested)

  • Tensile Strength: ~16–20 MPa

  • Tensile Modulus: ~600–1000 MPa

  • Tensile Elongation: ~80–100%

  • Aluminium Lap Shear: ~17–21 MPa

Typical Application Properties

  • Working Time: ~16–22 minutes

  • Fixture Time: ~25–35 minutes

  • Gap Filling: 1–25 mm (0.04–1.00 in)

  • Mixed Colour: Grey / Black

  • Recommended Application Temperature: 18–25°C (64–77°F)

  • Specific Gravity: ~0.96–1.02 g/cc

  • Mix Ratio:

    • By volume: 10:1

    • By weight: 9:1

  • Shelf Life: 12 months (stored as recommended)

Substrate Compatibility

Crestabond® M1-20 provides strong adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including:

  • Composites: GRP / FRP, carbon fibre laminates

  • Metals: Aluminium, stainless steel, carbon steel, coated metals

  • Thermoplastics: ABS, PVC, acrylics, and common engineering plastics

  • Dissimilar material assemblies

(For low surface energy plastics such as PP or PE, consult ATL for suitable surface preparation or alternative grades.)

Applications

Crestabond® M1-20 is recommended for:

  • Structural bonding of composite assemblies

  • Bonding composites to metals and thermoplastics

  • Marine, transport, rail, and industrial fabrication

  • Replacement of mechanical fasteners

  • General-purpose structural bonding where speed and toughness are critical

Processing & Application

Crestabond® M1-20 is supplied as a two-component system for cartridge or bulk dispensing.

  • Ensure substrates are clean, dry, and free of contamination

  • Light abrasion can further enhance long-term bond durability

  • Dispense until a uniform mixed colour is achieved before bonding

  • Complete assembly within the stated working time

  • Maintain application temperatures within the recommended range

The primerless nature of M1-20 reduces process steps, but application trials are recommended for critical or unfamiliar substrates.

Packaging & Storage

  • Packaging options:

    • 400 ml co-axial cartridges

    • 10:1 M1 Mixer available 

  • Storage:
    Store between 2°C and 23°C (36–73°F) in original, unopened containers.
    Protect from freezing and direct sunlight

Certifications

  •  

    EN 45545-2 (Rail fire protection standard)

ATL Technical Support

ATL Composites provides adhesive selection guidance, joint design advice, and processing support to ensure Crestomer® 1152PA delivers reliable, long-term structural performance in composite assemblies.

Crestabond® M1-20 Structural Adhesive

Key Features & Benefits

Low-shrink, low-profile formulation

Minimises mould distortion and dimensional movement

Faster mould build cycles and reduced downtime

Excellent control in hand lay-up applications

Reduces print-through and surface distortion

Easy processing with conventional tooling practices

Optimised compatibility with Crestamould tooling gelcoats

Applications

Crestamould® RTR 4010PA is recommended for:

  • FRP mould backing laminates

  • Rapid tooling manufacture

  • Large or complex mould structures

  • Low-distortion tooling systems

  • Hand lay-up tooling applications

Properties (Uncured)

  • Viscosity @ 25 °C (ICI): 4.5–5.5 poise

  • Specific Gravity: ~1.35

  • Volatile Content: 25–30%

  • Gel Time @ 25 °C (1% MEKP): 25–34 minutes

  • Shelf Life: ~5 months (≤20 °C)

Mechanical & Thermal Properties (Cured)

(Glass content ~28%, post cured)

  • Tensile Strength: ~114 MPa

  • Tensile Modulus: ~8075 MPa

  • Elongation at Break: ~2%

  • HDT (Base Resin): ~99 °C

  • HDT (Filled System): ~63 °C

Processing & Application

Crestamould® RTR 4010PA is supplied ready to use and requires only the addition of MEKP catalyst.

  • Recommended catalyst: 1% Butanox® M-50 or equivalent

  • Minimum workshop temperature: 18 °C (20–24 °C preferred)

  • Recommended reinforcement:
    Minimum 3 layers of 450 gsm CSM applied in a single operation

The resin undergoes a visible colour change as cure progresses, assisting process control.

Post curing is recommended to maximise mechanical properties and long-term mould performance.

Packaging & Storage

  • Packaging: 25 kg and 225 kg containers

  • Storage:
    Store between 5–25 °C in original, unopened containers.
    Protect from freezing and direct sunlight.

ATL Technical Support

ATL Composites provides tooling resin selection advice, laminate design support, and cure optimisation guidance to ensure Crestamould® RTR 4010PA delivers reliable, dimensionally stable tooling performance.

Crestamould® RTR 4010PA

Key Features & Benefits

Outstanding chemical resistance

Suitable for aggressive chemical environments at ambient and elevated temperatures

HDT up to ~100°C with post cure

Excellent control on vertical and overhead surfaces without sag or drainage

Reduces microbubbles and improves laminate integrity

Ideal for corrosion barrier and tie-layer applications

Qualified to AS1838 for corrosion-resistant tie layers in GRP swimming pools

Working Time Options

Crystic® VE 671 PA T LF is supplied in two gel-time variants to suit different application sizes and working conditions:

VE 671 PA T LF (Standard)
  • Typical gel time @ 25°C:

    • ~30 min with 2.0% Butanox® LPT

    • ~45 min with 1.5% Butanox® LPT

  • Ideal for general hand lay-up and spray applications where moderate working time is required

VE 671 PA T LF-70 (Extended Gel)
  • Typical gel time @ 25°C:

    • ~70 min with 1.5% Butanox® LPT

  • Designed for larger laminates, higher ambient temperatures, or more complex corrosion barrier applications requiring extended working time

Resin Properties (Uncured)

  • Appearance: Pinkish, hazy

  • Viscosity (Thixotropic):

    • ~2.8 dPa·s (ICI Cone & Plate @ 25°C)

    • ~2200 mPa·s (Brookfield Spindle 3, 5 rpm @ 25°C)

    • ~700 mPa·s (Brookfield Spindle 3, 50 rpm @ 25°C)

  • Storage Stability: Up to 6 months at ≤20°C

Mechanical & Thermal Properties (Cured)

(Post cure applied)
  • Barcol Hardness: ~40

  • Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT): ~100°C

  • Tensile Strength: ~80 MPa

  • Tensile Modulus: ~3.4 GPa

  • Flexural Strength: ~130 MPa

  • Elongation at Break: ~4.5%

Applications

Crystic® VE 671 PA T LF is recommended for:

  • Chemical storage tanks & vessels
    Corrosion barrier and structural laminate systems

  • GRP swimming pools
    Certified corrosion-resistant tie layers (AS1838 compliant)

  • Industrial corrosion protection
    Linings and laminates exposed to aggressive chemicals

  • Hand lay-up & spray lamination processes

  • Vertical or complex mouldings
    Where sag resistance and laminate quality are critical

ATL Technical Support

ATL Composites provides technical guidance on corrosion barrier design, resin selection, catalyst optimisation, and laminate sequencing to ensure Crystic® VE 671 PA T LF systems deliver long-term chemical and thermal performance.

Processing & Handling

Crystic® VE 671 PA T LF is pre-accelerated and designed for cold curing. It requires only the addition of a medium-reactivity MEKP catalyst, such as Butanox® M50 or Butanox® LPT, typically at 1–2%.

Important: Catalyst and accelerator must never be mixed directly together.

Post curing is recommended to achieve optimum chemical, water, and heat resistance before placing parts into service.

Packaging & Availability
  • 200 kg metallic drums

  • 200 kg IBCs

  • Bulk supply available on request

Crystic® Vinyl Ester Resin
VE671PAT LF 45
Crystic® Vinyl Ester Resin
VE671PAT LF 70
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