Designers’ Inspiration Library – Resin Transfer Molding

 

Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) is a process method in which resin is injected into a closed mold to infiltrate the reinforcing material and solidify. RTM started in the 1950s and is a closed mold molding technology improved from the hand lay-up molding process. This technology does not require prepreg and autoclave, effectively reducing equipment costs and molding costs. In recent years, it has developed rapidly, and has developed multiple branches such as RFI, VARTM, SCRIMP, SPRINT, etc. to meet the application needs of different fields. It is an advanced low-cost preparation technology for composite materials.

 

Process Flow Of Resin Transfer Molding

1. Lay a preform of reinforcing material consistent with the structural form of the part in the cavity;
2. Under a certain temperature and pressure, use an injection device to inject low-viscosity liquid resin into the closed cavity. While the resin diffuses the preform, it displaces all the gas in the cavity;
3. After the mold is filled with the cavity, the resin is cured by heating;
4. Demolding to obtain the product. Mold preparation>Gel coat preparation>Laying>Mold closing>Demolding>Post-processing>Inspection>Products

 

Features Of Resin Transfer Molding

1. Products with two-sided finish can be manufactured;
2. The dimensional accuracy of the parts is high, and the tolerance is precisely controllable, with good stability and repeatability;
3. High molding efficiency, suitable for medium-scale FRP product production (within 20,000 pieces/year);
4. Closed mold operation, no pollution to the environment, no harm to workers’ health;5. Reinforcement materials can be laid in any direction, and it is easy to lay reinforcement materials according to the stress conditions of the products;6. Low consumption of raw materials and energy.

 

Application of resin transfer molding RTM technology has a wide range of applications. It has been widely used in construction, transportation, telecommunications, health, aviation, aerospace and other industrial fields. Developed products include: automobile shells and parts, recreational vehicle components, propellers, 8.5m long wind turbine blades, antenna covers, machine covers, bathtubs, showers, swimming pool boards, seats, water tanks, telephone booths, telephone poles, small yachts, etc.