OneWinder does not ship with a mandrel. It would be quite inefficient for me and probably more expensive for you if I shipped a mandrel with every order, given the potentially large sizes of mandrels and variability in dimensions/desires from user to user. Thus, if you want a bit of guidance sourcing your mandrel, this info page has been compiled to make it easy for you to source a mandrel and its accompanying bulkheads at your convenience.
Mandrel Overview: This overview applies specifically to cylindrical tubes. I have not personally tested other shapes (rectangular, hexagonal, ect.) but feel free to experiment.
If you're confused about what the mandrel is, it is the core piece upon which your composite part is wound. The outer shape of your mandrel will be approximately equal to the shape of your part. For example, a 3" OD cylinder used as a mandrel will yield a tube with approximately a 3" ID. Note that the only bulkheads sold by Constellation Kinetics are intended for use with mandrels in the form of tubes. For other shapes of mandrels, you'll have to source your own bulkheads or email me and see if we can work out a solution for you.
Recommended Mandrels:
I recommend sourcing a mandrel made of aluminum. This will help ensure that your mandrel is rigid and can be wiped off with a solvent if you happen to get a little bit of epoxy on it. An aluminum mandrel will also shrink very slightly when cold, sometimes making it easier to remove your part from the mandrel.
The following list includes mandrel specifications, as well as a link to a recommended product for reference, and a link to a compatible set of bulkheads offered by Constellation Kinetics. Purchase from any of the listed external vendors at your own discretion, Constellation Kinetics is not associated or affiliated with them in any way.
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1" OD Mandrel
- 1" OD