Flow mat is a popular range of materials offered by Dymriton Composites that is specifically designed for closed-loop injection molding processes such as RTM (resin transfer molding) and light RTM, as well as infusion processes. It is made of two layers of fiberglass chopped strand mat with a layer of flow medium in between. This flow medium, typically made of polypropylene (PP) fibers, allows for better resin flow and impregnation throughout the material.

Flow mat is a flexible material that can conform to complex shapes and has excellent drapability. Its ability to quickly and easily saturate with resin, combined with its uniform resin distribution, makes it a popular choice for manufacturing high-quality composite parts with a smooth surface finish. The thickness and weight of RTM flow mat can vary depending on specific application requirements.

Description:

The double-sided fiberglass mat is combined with a resin flow medium made of polypropylene fleece, which allows for optimal resin flow during the molding process. The resulting flow mat has excellent drapability and stretchability, making it ideal for use in closed-loop injection molding processes such as RTM and light RTM, as well as infusion processes. It can be produced in thicknesses of 2-6 mm and can handle weights of up to 2000 g/m². The fast impregnation time, optimal resin absorption, and distribution of flow mat help to ensure a high-quality finished product with good mechanical properties.

The highlight: 

The PP layer in the Flow Mat serves as a flow medium that helps optimize and accelerate resin flow during the molding process. This allows for faster and more efficient production, resulting in increased productivity and cost savings. In fact, Dymriton offers a special high flow version of the Flow Mat that can result in resin flowing up to five times faster compared to traditional materials.

What is Flow Mat?

Flow Mat is a type of seamed sandwich composite that is designed to optimize resin flow during composite part manufacturing processes such as RTM (resin transfer molding) and light RTM, as well as infusion processes. It is composed of two layers of chopped glass fibers and a core material made of polyester and PP (polypropylene) to create a resin flow zone. The resin is first injected horizontally into the core material, and then vertically into the outer glass fiber reinforcement. This two-step dipping approach is made possible by the flow aid in the core material, which greatly speeds up the horizontal injection process and saves time during production. The result is a composite part with improved mechanical properties and a high-quality surface finish.

Flow Mat Max

The outer reinforcement material of Flow Mat can be customized according to the specific requirements of the application. It can consist of one or two layers of chopped strand mat (CSM), and the weight of CSM fiber can be selected from a range of 300g/m2 to 600g/m2. In addition, Dymriton’s Combi MAX technology can be integrated into the Flow Mat to further reinforce the sandwich composite with a multiaxial fabric.

The use of surface veil in combination with Flow Mat and Flow Mat MAX can significantly improve the surface finish of the finished component. The surface veil helps to reduce print-through and improve the cosmetic appearance of the part, while the Flow Mat or Flow Mat MAX facilitate resin flow and impregnation. Together, they offer a highly efficient solution for producing high-quality composite parts with a smooth surface finish.

It’s always helpful when manufacturers can work closely with customers to provide customized solutions and efficient production processes.

Advantages:

best drapability

Flow media enables extremely fast resin flow.

Ideal for closed procedures such as RTM, RTM light, infusion etc.

High flow model with 25% faster flow

Significantly reduces mold occupancy time

The entire process, with limited time for resin infusion, is ideal for large parts.

Flexible use, customized design and manufacture for customers

Dymriton Composite can adjust the material width to range from 500mm to 2600mm and the weight of the resin flow felt can be customized from 120g/m2 to 300g/m2 based on the specific needs of the customer. Additionally, the weight and number of layers of CSM can also be adjusted according to the customer’s requirements.

The combination of Flow mat MAX reinforcement, and fabrication in one step allows for enhanced performance and efficiency. The built-in multi-layer multiaxial fabric provides the required mechanical properties, while the resin flow zone facilitates optimal resin absorption and distribution. This all-in-one solution reduces production time and costs while ensuring high-quality finished products.

Storing Dymriton Composite products in a cool, dry place is important to maintain their quality. The recommended temperature range is 10-35°C, with a relative humidity of 35-75%. If the product is stored at a low temperature, below 15°C, it should be left in the workshop for at least 24 hours before use to acclimate to the room temperature. This helps to prevent moisture buildup and ensure consistent performance.