Research in Advanced Materials Processing and Process Modeling
Abstract
In resin transfer molding (RTM), the liquid matrix is pumped into the mold to infiltrate a preform assembled in the mold and under compressive stresses. The matrix tends to flow around the preform periphery, along the path(s) of least resistance and arrive at the vents before the entire preform is impregnated, causing the part to be defective. This phenomenon is known as "race tracking." A preform-mold misfit could waste an entire part since recovery from a non-fill is not possible. The primary goal of this research was to develop and demonstrate a practical quantitative method for evaluating the preform-mold fit with the mold closed before the matrix is injected. The preform-mold fit is determined by probing the ready-to-inject mold assembly with nitrogen and collecting the exhaust gas through a series of flow meters located along the periphery of the mold. Experiments have been developed to test the instrumentation and the methodology for the prediction of the characteristics of the resin flow front with satisfactory results.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA343689
Entities
People
- Devdas M. Pai
- Robert L. Sadler
- Samuel P. Owusu-ofori
Organizations
- North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University