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Hold cleaning disputes are not infrequent and can result in the need for multiple surveys and significant delays and costs. This article discusses some of the practical aspects of cleaning cargo holds, including the factors which will be relevant to the extent of cleaning required, and also how appropriate systems can be put into place to carry this out in an efficient manner. It also comments on a recent London arbitration which considered an implied term in relation to the standard of cleanliness required and whether charterparty requirements were met in circumstances where there were contradictory survey results. Introduction to Hold Cleaning Preparation of cargo holds for the next cargo is an important operational consideration on all bulk carriers. If not properly planned and carried out inadequate hold cleaning can lead to several different claim types. Claims in respect of the cargo, such as for shortage, contamination or water damage, can be directly linked to the hold cleaning, in addition to which charterparty disputes resulting from delays and berth costs may arise. By way of an example, unless the hatch cover seating surfaces are clean, a weathertight seal will not be possible resulting in a risk of water accumulating and dripping into the hold and causing cargo damage. The extent of hold cleaning and preparation required for the next cargo will depend on several factors; most importantly, the cargo to be loaded and its intended use. In the bulk carrier trade a number of terms are often used to describe the cleanliness requirements but Members should be aware that there is no universal definition of these terms and very often surveyors will inspect holds subjectively based purely on their previous experiences rather than set criteria. ‘Standards’ such as ‘hospital’, ‘ grain’, ‘normal’ and ‘shovel’ are all in common use and are often included in charterparties. However, even when one of these commonly used terms is used, disputes can arise in relation to the cleaning standard required as some countries interpret the requirements differently and what may be acceptable as ‘grain clean’ in one port may not be acceptable in another. For instance, it is well known that Australia, USA and Canada require very high standards of hold cleanliness prior to loading grain cargoes. A broad guide to these commonly used terms is: “Hospital Clean” is the most stringent and requires all hold surfaces to have 100% intact paint coatings on all surfaces (including the tank top, all ladder rungs and undersides of hatches). “Grain Clean” requires the holds to be free from insects, odour, residue of previous cargo, lashing material, loose rust scale and paint flakes, etc. Prior to loading the holds must be swept, washed down with fresh water, dried and well ventilated. Light atmospheric rusting of exposed steel is generally acceptable but loose scale or paint, such that it may become detached and mix with the cargo, certainly is not. “Normal Clean” requires the holds to be swept to remove all residues of the previous cargo, washed down and dried ready to receive a similar or compatible cargo. “Shovel Clean” does not require washing but only the removal of the previous cargo by rough hand or mechanical sweeping. It should however be noted that there is no universally accepted definition of these terms. Therefore, wherever possible, it is important to use as clear a description as possible when describing the cleaning standard required in a charterparty or voyage order. A significant distinction in so far as hold cleanliness is the obligation that applies on delivery under charters and that which applies for intermediate hold cleaning. For a discussion on this issue see: 'Intermediate Hold Cleaning - Owners' Duty' and 'Hold Cleaning - Who Bears The Cost?' Planning and Preparation for Hold Cleaning To reduce the amount of hold cleaning required for the next cargo masters may utilise the discharge/cleaning facilities at the current port. By removing as much remnant of the prior cargo from the holds, disposal and clean-up costs can be reduced and time can be saved before the next load port. In order to effectively and quickly clean holds it is also important to have access to sufficient cleaning materials, including chemicals (if appropriate for the next cargo) and high pressure washing equipment on board. When planning the hold cleaning operation the master should also properly assess the risks of this. For instance, if chemicals are to be used as part of the washing-down procedure, accurate data (MSDS) should be provided to the vessel to ensure the risks are understood and safe handling implemented. This will include a job specific risk assessment, a tool box talk and the correct use of personal protective equipment. Moreover, agreement on compatibility of the clean with the next intended cargo should be obtained from the shippers/charterers in order to ensure that there is clarity on the precise level of cleanliness they require the vessel to achieve, for example no loose rust, no bare steel or fully painted and cured.  

Whether you have decided to make the switch from trad to water fed pole or you are just starting out as a window cleaner, few people have large budgets to invest in equipment. There are great premade systems out there that just bolt into a van, but many people want to go the DIY route and put the system together themselves. Here is our guide on how to get started water fed pole window cleaning on a budget.   The five main parts are: A reservoir – to carry the pure water. This could be anything from a 25 litre barrel to a custom-built 1000 litre tank. A pump – to move the water from the reservoir to the windows. This should be 12v and around 100 psi. A pump controller – to cut off the pump when you stop the flow, and to control the speed of the pump A power source – to power the pump. This is usually a 12v leisure battery. A water delivery system – such as a hose to deliver the water to the windows.   Keep this in mind because everything comes back to these 5 main elements. A DIY van setup Working from a car with a backpack or a trolley is brilliant to give you a taste of water fed pole window cleaning, but it can be tough lifting the heavy water in and out of the boot, carrying a heavy backpack around the property, and having to keep refilling it. It’s time for a DIY van setup! Reservoir – you can buy a baffled tank. It is important to get a baffled tank because it stops the water from moving about too much as you travel. 1 litre of water weighs 1kg, so be careful that you do not exceed the payload on your van when it is full of water. Safety is important so you need to secure your tank in place. Imagine that you had a crash with half a tonne of water unsecured in the back of the van! I recommend a frame that fits around the tank and is bolted to the floor of the van to secure the water. It is also possible to secure your tank with ratchet straps, but be aware that the tie-down points in the van are not designed to secure a very heavy load in place. Pump – the standard pump for window cleaners is the shurflo. Pump Controller – there are lots of advantages to go for a spring v16 controller. There are many types available from the basic all the way to controllers that automate your filtration. Power source – though it may be tempting to use your existing van battery, it is not a good idea. A van battery is designed to give a large amount of energy for a short time, but for window cleaning, we want a small amount of energy over an extended time. Using your van battery is a false economy as it will shorten its life and can discharge your battery making your van unstartable. For this, we need a leisure battery. You can get by with a 70ah battery, but a 110ah or larger battery will be better. Be sure to fuse it and include a cut-off switch. Water delivery system – You can buy a basic hose reel. When starting out on a budget you don’t need to get powered reels that run on bearings. You will likely need to have 100m of hose, plus pole hose. Once you have a van, you can have a budget DIY van set up. Follow along with TCG to see how our DIY van build goes. A setup like this will last you for years and will make you thousands of pounds. Choose your best option The best option for you may depend on your budget, the work you already have, whether you see yourself doing residential or commercial work, and what the houses are like in your are with regards to parking, access and height. Backpacks, trolleys and van mounted systems are the three basic types of systems. There will be lots more information to come on TCG regarding each of these. Starting up is usually the hardest point. You are spending money without having immediate returns. By being committed and reliable you can grow a good window cleaning business that will offer great returns on your initial investment.

When choosing hiking poles, there are several factors to consider that can impact your hiking experience:Weight:The weight of the hiking poles is an important factor to consider, especially for long-distance hikes. Carbon fiber poles are known for their lightweight properties, making them an excellent choice for reducing fatigue during long hikes. However, aluminum poles are also a good choice for their durability and ability to withstand rough conditions without breaking or snapping.Durability:Durability is another important consideration for hiking poles, as they need to withstand rugged terrain and heavy use. Aluminum poles are known for their durability and can handle rough conditions without easily breaking or snapping. Carbon fiber poles, while generally strong and durable, can be more fragile and prone to cracking or splintering under extreme stress.Shock Absorption:Shock absorption is an essential feature for hiking poles, as it can reduce strain on your joints and muscles. Carbon fiber poles tend to offer better shock absorption compared to aluminum poles. The natural damping properties of carbon fiber can absorb more impact, providing a softer feel while hiking and reducing stress on your body.Price:Budget is always a consideration when purchasing hiking gear. Carbon fiber poles are generally more expensive compared to aluminum poles. If you're on a budget, aluminum poles may be a more affordable option. However, you should keep in mind that cheaper hiking poles may not be as durable or as feature-rich as more expensive options.Rigidity:Rigidity refers to the stiffness of hiking poles. Carbon fiber poles are known for their high stiffness and minimal flex, providing better stability on uneven terrain. Aluminum poles may have a bit more flex, which could be a consideration for hikers who prefer a more flexible feel.Climate:The climate you hike in can also impact your choice of hiking poles. Carbon fiber poles can perform better in colder climates as they do not conduct heat like aluminum poles. This can make carbon fiber poles more comfortable to handle in cold weather, as they won’t feel as cold to the touch. Aluminum poles may feel colder in chilly conditions, which can be a consideration if you hike in colder climates frequently.Appearance:While aesthetics may not be the primary consideration for many hikers, the appearance of hiking poles can still be a factor for some. Carbon fiber poles are often praised for their sleek and modern appearance, with their glossy finish and futuristic look. Aluminum poles, on the other hand, tend to have a more traditional appearance with their metallic finish.Ultimately, the best hiking pole for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as weight, durability, shock absorption, price, rigidity, climate, and appearance when making your decision. Additionally, it's also important to look for features such as adjustable length, pack-down size, grip material, grip ergonomics, and reliable locking mechanisms to further enhance your comfort and performance on the trail.

Carbon fiber is quickly replacing materials in various applications. Its many characteristics make it one of the most valuable composites available, leading to wide use in the aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. The uses are almost limitless, and even photographers can benefit from it. This guide reviews the benefits of getting a carbon fiber tripod. Keep reading for more. Lightweight Various tripod materials are available, but carbon fiber is one of the best for photographers that travel a lot. Carbon fiber is incredibly light compared to similar materials, which is one of the main reasons for its use in aerospace and automotive applications. Travel photographers often have a lot of equipment, and lugging it around can be challenging. Being able to save on weight is always a bonus. An aluminum tripod is another relatively light option, but it can still be about twice as heavy as carbon fiber for the same size equipment. Stability Camera tripods need to be stable to ensure pictures come out clear. Carbon fiber provides excellent stability, allowing you to get sharp images every time. Carbon fiber is very rigid and can handle a  sizable load before bending. Regardless of the size of your camera, it will hold firm and help you get better pictures. Durability and Rigidity Some photographers might do shoots in harsh conditions. Carbon fiber is very strong, and it’s both heat and corrosion-resistant. Proper maintenance means a carbon fiber tripod will last you much longer than an aluminum one. High-end aluminum tripods will generally perform exceptionally well in extreme weather, but they’ll tend to degrade faster than carbon fiber—especially when corrosion starts. If you want something that will last even if exposed to the elements, carbon fiber is the way to go. What You Should Look For If you’re looking for quality, carbon fiber is better than aluminum. With that in mind, there are certain things you want to consider before buying your tripod. Load Capacity Check the load capacity of any tripod before investing. You want to ensure you get one that can hold all your equipment with no trouble. Leg Adjustability If you can’t adjust the legs of your tripod, you might be limited, which could impact the shoots you want to do. A tripod that can be adjusted will give you more flexibility and freedom. Additional Features Several other features might not be essential but can come in very handy. Things like a built-in spirit level, a center column, and additional accessory mounts will allow you to do more with your camera. Carbon Fiber Tripod Manufacturing A carbon fiber tripod can be a photographer’s best friend. There are other options, but carbon fiber has the strength, stability, and weight to make it one of the best choices. Lanbao is a leading manufacturer of composite parts for all kinds of applications. We can manufacture tripods to precise specifications to meet any photographer’s needs.

i want you to know these 3 things to maybe calm yourself from whatever situation you are in 1.) fiberglass is cleanable (it just takes some work) 2.) once you rid of the source the leftover fibers are only decreasing from that point on out 3.) a little exposure to these fibers will cause skin irritation and chest irritation.. but this is most often temporary. assuming you aren’t talking about an attic and you are talking about your house or room: step 1:grab a n-95 mask, gloves, tyvek suit, or long sleeve with pants, and get rid of the source that is cause the contamination if it is furniture or a bed contained in one room, make sure you find a way to cover the furniture completely in a bag before dragging it out of your house. if the bed can fit out the window, try to chuck it out of the window to save trips around your house. step 2: take whatever clothes, sheets, etc. you want to keep, put them in a trash bag, tie it TIGHT and bring them to your washer and dryer step 3: prepare your room or full house for a MASSIVE cleaning spree (clear room of objects on floor, get rid of things you don’t want to keep) step 4: VACCUM VACCUM VACCUM. MAKE SURE YOUR VACCUM IS A HEPA FILTER Vaccum.. wait for the dust to settle, vaccum again, wait for the dust to settle, and on and on do this about 4–5 times. i’m assuming the particles will take about 10–15 minutes to fully fall after vacuuming step 5: after you are done vacuuming make sure you clean off all surfaces and objects you’d like to keep (the reason behind doing surfaces last is the same reason we wait for the particle to fall before vacuuming again.. if we were to clean surfaces first the dust would just be in the air and land on everything we just cleaned. step 6 (optional): repeat steps 4 and 5 over again step 7: make sure your clothes you used to clean/vaccum are put in a plastic trash bag to wash, don’t drag it through the house. step 8: when you shower start with cold water, this will close the pores and ensure that the fiber fall off you when cleaning so start cold for 5–10 min and then use light soap and cold water, then you can move to warm water and regular soap. (you will need to do this for about a week) step 9: when you wash your clothes you most likely are going to have fibers in the clothes that were in your room or house etc. the best way to rid of these fibers is one of two ways: run a load through the wash with cold water (no detergent) (this shrinks fibers) and then dry. after that load is dry throw it back into the washer and run it through with HOT water and detergent. option two is to take your clothes and soak them with apple cider vinegar, this helps dissolve fibers and make them less pointy, and then throw them in the washer with cold water first the hot water. step 10: make sure you are airing out your room as much as possible after cleaning your room, make sure to continue to wash it down at a normal intensity weekly, this means vacuuming 2 times a week, wiping down surfaces 2 times a week. if you have the money i recommend getting a HEPA air filter AFTER you have done the cleaning process and run it 24/7 while you continue to vacuum etc. eventually you will irradiate most of the fibers from wherever they are located. fibers love to lay on dusty surfaces, the more dust the more fiberglass Hope it helps

1. Metal mandrel The roll wrapping process involves wrapping prepreg carbon fibre around a metal mandrel and so the starting point is to have a metal mandrel of the correct diameter for the size tube that you want to create. Because the carbon fibre will be wrapped around the outside of the mandrel, the mandrel itself needs to have an outside diameter that matches the inside diameter of the carbon fibre tube you will use it to make. The outside diameter of your carbon fibre tube will be determined by the amount of reinforcement (the number of layers) you wrap around the mandrel. In the video we use an aluminium mandrel because the high coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of aluminium makes it well-suited to the roll wrapping process. Steel or other metals can be used but metals with higher CTE will make the process easier. If you want to produce a tapered carbon fibre tube then you will most likely need to use a lathe to turn down a solid aluminium rod to create a tapered mandrel. Once you have a correctly sized mandrel, ensure it is completely clean and as smooth as possible to aid with extraction. The mandrel should then be thoroughly prepared with a high temperature chemical release agent, such as Easy-Lease. 2. Prepreg carbon fibre Although in theory it may be possible to use alternative types of reinforcements, such as a dry fabric wetted out with an epoxy resin, in practice only prepreg carbon fibre offers the precision and ease of handling required for the roll wrapping process. In the tutorial we use a layer of XPREG® XC110 210g woven prepreg on the inside of the tube, followed by several layers of XC130 300g unidirectional prepreg, finished with a final layer of the XC110 210g woven prepreg again on the outside of the tube. Because the woven prepreg has fibres oriented in the 0° axis (down the length of the tube) and in the 90° axis (around the circumference of the tube) these layers add what is known as hoop strength to the tube, making the tube less vulnerable to crush or burst forces and splintering. The bulk of the reinforcement, in the 0° axis, gives the tube its longitudinal stiffness. By altering the layup to include more or less woven layers or by changing or alternating the orientation of the unidirectional plies allows the performance of the tube to be precisely optimised for its specific use. For example, a tube for a prop-shaft will encounter primarily torsional forces and so the unidirectional fibre can be aligned off-axis, at 45° for example, specifically to handle these forces. 3. Composites shrink tape Once the prepreg carbon fibre reinforcement has been wrapped around the mandrel as tightly as possible, the reinforcement is then tightly wrapped with a composites shrink tape to provide further consolidation. When applying the shrink tape it is important to ensure there is lots of overlap. Each wrap of the tape advances only a few millimetres down the tube. Although time consuming to do by hand, having lots of overlap in this way will provide much more consolidation pressure when the tape contracts during the cure. 4. Oven cure Besides the mandrel, having an oven to cure the tube in is likely to be the main limiting factor when considering the roll wrapping process outside of a full production environment. However, unlike other prepreg processes, the roll wrapping process does not require precise temperature control or the multi-step 'ramp and soak' cure cycles often needed. Nor does the process require an active vacuum line into the oven. Therefore, the only requirements for an oven to cure a roll wrapped tubes are basic temperature control and sufficient size to fit the tube in. Depending on the size of the tube you want to make, anything from a domestic oven to a powder-coating oven could be used. In the video tutorial, we're using our OV301 precision composites curing oven. The XPREG XC110 prepreg is loaded into the oven at 120°C, flat temperature, and allowed to cure for 1hr 30mins.

If you are contemplating buying camera equipment, you will soon realize that various manufacturers use varying technologies for their products. Some products might appear similar, and identifying the differences between them is challenging at times. However, some commonly overlooked parts, such as the camera pole and its material, can be a difference-maker regarding performances and durability. While some manufacturers prefer metallic telescoping poles, shrewd manufacturing firms adopt carbon fiber poles, which are lightweight and highly durable. This post will discuss why using more explicit materials such as carbon fiber is crucial for video systems. Read on to learn more: 1. Lightweight One significant advantage of adopting carbon fiber telescoping poles is their lightweight nature. Logistically, these pieces of equipment must be transported to various event venues, which involves frequent moving processes. That, in turn, means the total weight of the system must be a crucial factor when buying your video system. Fiber telescopic poles are lighter, allowing the system to weigh much less than those with metallic telescopic poles. 2. Strong While carbon fiber boasts of its lightweight quality, these materials are exceptionally sturdy. That's essential regarding system stability during operation and also the long-term durability it provides. Unlike metallic poles, carbon fiber poles do not quickly bend and might require harsh treatment during transportation. Carbon fiber's weight to strength ratio qualifies it as an ideal choice for a telescoping camera pole material. 3. Durable A video camera unit is a considerable investment for most companies, which means getting value for your money is a crucial factor to consider during the purchase. That, in turn, paying extra attention to the cost alone; you should also think about how long it can remain operational. As aforementioned, carbon fiber poles are sturdy and don't bend easily or become compromised by corrosion. These poles also have higher water and UV-light resistance and don't suffer contraction or expansion due to erratic temperature compared to other metallic materials. Consequently, you receive telescopic camera poles that can withstand the test of time and weather elements. Furthermore, whether you choose to invest in more high-end camera equipment, you don't require purchasing newer poles in the future. 4. Conclusion Investing in a reliable, durable, lightweight, and sturdy telescopic camera pole has many long-term benefits to your business. Since they weigh less than metallic poles, you can save more time, money, and effort moving them around. Their strength and durability make them cost-effective options to consider when you are looking for lasting solutions.

For serious offshore fisherman, outriggers are considered essential equipment. The purpose of outriggers are to widen a spread and create ability to add more lines in the water without fear of entanglement. In this article we will compare the benefits and uses of different types of outriggers on offshore fishing boats.  Fixed Length OutriggersFixed length outriggers are the most basic and traditional type of outriggers that are still popular among offshore anglers. Fixed outriggers are typically made of sturdy materials such as aluminum or fiberglass and are designed to handle heavy loads. They are also relatively affordable easy to install and typically can only swing outward. The main benefit of fixed outriggers is their durability and reliability. They are built to last and can withstand the harsh offshore environment. They are also very stable and provide a solid platform for multiple fishing lines. Fixed outriggers are ideal for anglers who prefer a simple and straightforward fishing setup.  Telescoping OutriggersTelescoping outriggers are designed to be adjustable in length, which allows anglers to extend their fishing reach and be able to lower the height of the overall vessel. They are made up of several sections that can be extended or retracted as needed. Telescoping outriggers are typically made of lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber and are easy to maneuver. The main benefit of telescoping outriggers is their versatility. They can be adjusted to different lengths depending on the fishing conditions, and they can be collapsed for easy storage when not in use. Telescoping outriggers are ideal for anglers who want a flexible and adaptable fishing setup. Mounting Styles: Gunwale Or HardtopConventional outriggers are designed with a side-mounted style, where they are attached to the gunwales of the boat. This feature allows for efficient trolling and is popular among mid-size fishing boats. Gunwale-mounted outriggers are less costly than the hardtop-mounted, but they can be obstructive depending on the boat and only come in certain sizes.  Hardtop-mounted outriggers are mounted at a higher point on the boat which provides more space for those on board.  This comes at a price, as hardtop-mounted outriggers are usually more expensive and you may have to climb on top of the hardtop to put them out which can be risky, especially if it is a rough day offshore.  Carbon Fiber OutriggersCarbon fiber outriggers are the newest and most advanced type of outriggers available on the market. Lightweight and incredibly strong, carbon fiber allows for a thinner and more flexible option which is designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Easy to maneuver and quickly adjusted to different lengths and positions as needed, carbon fiber outriggers are ideal for anglers who want the most advanced and high-performance outriggers available. In conclusion, outriggers are essential equipment for offshore fishing boats, and choosing the right type of outrigger depends on your personal fishing style and preferences.   No matter which type of outrigger you choose, it will undoubtedly help you to extend your fishing reach, get more lines in the water, and improve your chances of catching more fish!

A carbon fiber telescopic fruit picking pole is considered to be one of the most important tools in fruit picking. It is made up of high-quality carbon fiber, which makes it lightweight and easy to handle. With its telescopic feature, the pole can be extended to different heights. The pole is used in picking different fruits such as apples, pears, and plums.The use of carbon fiber in manufacturing fruit picking poles is relatively new. Before carbon fiber, most fruit picking poles were made from aluminum or steel. These materials were sturdy but heavy, making it challenging for fruit pickers to use them for long periods. Carbon fiber, on the other hand, has various benefits that make it an ideal material for fruit picking poles.Firstly, carbon fiber is incredibly lightweight. This makes it easy for people to hold and use for long periods without getting fatigued. In contrast, heavy fruit picking poles can make the job feel more tedious, and the user may need to take frequent breaks, thus slowing down the process.Secondly, carbon fiber is also strong and durable. This makes it a reliable material to use for fruit picking poles. This is crucial since fruit picking poles need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the fruits without breaking. With carbon fiber poles, you can be sure that your tool will last long and will not wear out easily.Moreover, carbon fiber telescopic fruit picking poles are also rust-resistant, unlike aluminum and steel poles. This feature makes them ideal for use in humid or wet environments such as fruit orchards or farms. In addition, carbon fiber poles do not corrode when exposed to chemicals used in fruit farming, making them an ideal choice for fruit pickers.One of the most significant benefits of carbon fiber fruit picking poles is their adjustable height feature. This feature allows the user to extend or shorten the pole to different lengths according to their preferences. This makes it easier for fruit growers to pick fruits at various heights without having to use a ladder, which can be dangerous.Carbon fiber poles also come with replaceable baskets that are used to capture the fruits that have been picked. The baskets are made of durable materials that can withstand the weight of the fruits and are easy to clean. The basket can be detached from the pole, which makes it easier to empty the fruits into a container or basket.Another advantage of carbon fiber telescopic fruit picking poles is their ergonomic design. The poles come with a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue. The comfortable grip also makes it easy for users to handle the tool with ease, even when using it for long periods.Carbon fiber telescopic fruit picking poles can also be used for other tasks such as pruning and trimming. They come with an adjustable pruning head that can be angled to reach different parts of a tree. This makes it easy to maintain a fruit tree without the need for multiple tools.In conclusion, the use of carbon fiber telescopic fruit picking poles has revolutionized the way in which fruit is picked. These poles are lightweight, strong, and durable, making them ideal for use in fruit picking. Their telescopic feature makes it easy to adjust the height of the pole, and the ergonomic design ensures that users do not suffer from hand fatigue. The use of carbon fiber in manufacturing fruit picking poles has made it easier, more efficient, and more comfortable for fruit pickers, making it an essential tool for fruit farming.

How is Carbon Fiber Different from Fiberglass? When looking into composite material options many look to carbon fiber or fiberglass for their versatility and strength. Most want to know, is carbon fiber stronger than fiberglass? Though there are other considerations to keep in mind when choosing which is best for you. Carbon fiber and fiberglass are both composite materials, the main difference between the two is that fiberglass is comprised of melted strands of glass while carbon fiber is made from strands of carbon atoms. Both are strong and lightweight materials that can be ideal for a wide range of applications across many different industries, however, carbon fiber is stronger, lighter, and more expensive to produce. Sometimes fiberglass will be a preferred material for commercial uses as it will meet performance requirements while also being less expensive. See our previous post, Common Questions about Carbon Fiber for more answers to some of the most common questions our clients have surrounding carbon fiber manufacturing. How Much Lighter is Carbon Fiber than Fiberglass? Fiberglass is a lightweight material making it ideal for many applications. However, an even lighter, and sometimes a stronger, material is required for complex and high-performing products. When lightness is key, carbon fiber is an ideal choice. Carbon fiber can be up to 15% lighter than fiberglass materials making it the material of choice for automotive, aerospace and defence applications that have specific performance requirements. How Much Stronger is Carbon Fiber than Fiberglass? Both fiberglass and carbon fiber are strong materials, so strong in fact, that both are stronger than steel. When strength is important to your project, high-quality carbon fiber takes the lead as it can be more than 20% stronger than the toughest fiberglass materials. Though carbon fiber is both lighter and stronger than fiberglass, it is not always the right choice for your project. Carbon fiber is expensive to produce and is not always suitable when budgets are a factor. Working with an experienced composites manufacturer that offers composite engineering is your best bet in understanding which type of material is right for your needs. Contact the experts at Spartec Composites to learn more about composite material options and how to make your project come to life.

The water fed pole is a tool used for cleaning windows and other surfaces without the need for ladders or other equipment that may pose safety risks. The use of water fed poles dates back more than a century, and the evolution of this tool has revolutionized the commercial cleaning industry.In the early days of window cleaning, a hand-held squeegee was used to clean windows from the outside. This method worked fine for windows that were easily accessible from the ground, but presented challenges for those at higher altitudes. Ladders were used to reach the windows, but this was a hazardous method, as ladders can be unstable and pose a risk of falls. Harnesses were sometimes used to protect workers from falls, but these were also cumbersome and added time and expense to the job.In the 18th century, a new method for window cleaning was developed. It was called the "ladderless" window cleaning system and was based on the use of wooden poles that were fitted with well wrung sponges and rags and dipped in water. The poles were then used to reach the windows from the ground. Workers were able to clean windows on the upper floors of buildings without risking injury, but the method was still limited in its effectiveness.In the 20th century, technological advancements improved the water fed pole system. In the 1920s, window cleaning companies began to use gasoline-powered water pumps to create a higher pressure flow of water. A hose was attached to the water pump and then to a metal or wooden pole with a brush head at the end. The brush was used to clean the windows, while the water supplied through the hose rinsed away the dirt.But the system was still heavy and labor-intensive, and there was a risk of damaging the building façade, cars, or pedestrians from the spray of water from the high-pressure pumps.In the late 20th century, new materials such as aluminum and fiberglass allowed water fed poles to be produced with a stronger and lighter construction. This made it easier for workers to handle and maneuver, and the adjustable parts allowed for the poles to be extended and retracted as needed for different-sized windows.It wasn't until the early 21st century when carbon fiber began to be used to make water fed poles that revolutionized the window cleaning industry. Carbon fiber is known for being lightweight and strong, which allows for long poles to be used without losing their rigidity. Carbon fiber is also corrosion and UV-resistant, making these poles ideal for use in harsh outdoor environments.In addition, with the development of water deionization and filtration systems, the use of pure water through the water-fed pole has become commonplace. This results in a superior cleaning process, as the pure water dries without leaving any marks or streaks on the windows and removes any dirt, grime, or residue without the need for any chemicals.With the evolution of technology and advancements in materials, the water fed pole system has become a valuable tool in the cleaning industry. It allows for windows to be cleaned safely and efficiently from the ground, without the need for ladders, scaffolding or other equipment, and with no damage to the façade of the building or any surrounding materials. It has also allowed for the cleaning of other hard-to-reach surfaces such as solar panels, signage, cladding, and fencing.In conclusion, the water fed pole has a rich history of evolution, innovation, and advancement. Today, the technology continues to grow and improve with the development of more lightweight, strong materials and the use of pure water, making window cleaning and other high-up cleaning tasks safer, faster, and more cost-effective.

Carbon fiber photography poles are becoming an increasingly popular choice among professional photographers and videographers. The primary advantage of using a carbon fiber photography pole is the strength and durability of the material, as well as its lightweight properties. Here are some specific advantages of using a carbon fiber photography pole:1. Lightweight: Carbon fiber is known for its lightweight properties, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver. This is particularly important when using a photography pole, as it allows for greater control and precision of camera movement.2. Strength: Carbon fiber is incredibly strong, which makes it ideal for use in photography poles. This allows for the pole to be extended to greater lengths without losing its rigidity, which is important when trying to obtain high-angle shots.3. Durability: Carbon fiber is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear, which makes it ideal for use in harsh outdoor environments. This means that carbon fiber photography poles can withstand exposure to sunlight, heat, cold, and moisture without becoming damaged or degraded over time.4. Aesthetically Pleasing: Carbon fiber is a sleek and modern material that looks great in any photography equipment kit. It is also resistant to scratches, which means that it will maintain its appearance over time. 5. Non-Conductive: Carbon fiber is a non-conductive material, which means that it does not conduct electricity. This is particularly important when conducting outdoor photography in wet conditions, as it reduces the risk of accidental electrocution.Overall, a carbon fiber photography pole is an excellent investment for photographers and videographers who value strength, durability, and versatility. With its lightweight and sleek design, it provides a reliable and ergonomic way to capture high-angle shots, making it a valuable tool in any photographer's kit.