A methodology to reduce variability during vacuum infusion with optimized design of distribution media

Sas H. S. , Simacek P., ADVANI S. G.

COMPOSITES PART A-APPLIED SCIENCE AND MANUFACTURING, vol.78, pp.223-233, 2015 (Journal Indexed in SCI) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 78
  • Publication Date: 2015
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.compositesa.2015.08.011
  • Title of Journal : COMPOSITES PART A-APPLIED SCIENCE AND MANUFACTURING
  • Page Numbers: pp.223-233

Abstract

Seemann Composites Resin Infusion Molding Process (SCRIMP) is a widely used version of Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) in which a highly permeable layer (distribution media) is placed on top of the dry preform to distribute the resin with very low flow resistance to reduce the filling and hence the manufacturing time. The flow patterns during filling may vary from part to part due to the variability associated with the material, part geometry, and layup of the assembly, which may result in race-tracking channels. The process is considered as reliable and robust only if the resin completely saturates the preform despite changing filling patterns caused by flow disturbances.