This content is not included in
your SAE MOBILUS subscription, or you are not logged in.
Analysis of Flow in the RTM Process
Annotation ability available
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
During resin transfer molding (RTM) or structural reaction injection molding (SRIM), a low viscosity fluid is injected into a mold containing preplaced fiber reinforcement. The purpose of this paper is to present a mathematical model for the filling stage in RTM or SRIM when the viscosity and cavity thickness can be assumed to remain constant. We will show how by a transformation of variables that the equations governing RTM flow, become the same as the ones for injection molding into an empty mold when the thin gap approximation (Hele Shaw model) is made. We will also show results of simulating the filling of a typical body panel and show how the model can be used to estimate where to locate injection points and air vents. Simple algebraic equations which can be used to estimate fill times without running the computer program are given. Permeability and paste viscosity measurements are also given.
Recommended Content
Technical Paper | Gas Assisted Injection Molding - The New Thermoplastic Molding Technology for Exterior Body Panels |
Technical Paper | Development of Plastic Rear Seat Cushion Frame Using PP-LFT |
Technical Paper | A Flexible Production Environment |
Authors
Citation
Lee, Y., Castro, J., Tomlinson, G., and Straus, E., "Analysis of Flow in the RTM Process," SAE Technical Paper 890247, 1989, https://doi.org/10.4271/890247.Also In
New Developments in Polymer Composites for Automotive Applications
Number: SP-0784; Published: 1989-02-01
Number: SP-0784; Published: 1989-02-01
References
- Slattery J. C. Momentum, Energy and Mass Transfer in Continua McGraw Hill Book Company 1984
- Silva Nieto P. J. Fisher B. C. Berley A. W. Polymer Composites 1 14 1980
- Lee C. C. Folgar F. Tucker C. L. “Simulation of Compression Molding for Fiber Reinforced Thermosetting Polymers,” J. of Eng. for Ind. 106 115 1984
- Osswald T. A. “Numerical Methods for Compression Mold Filling Simulation,” Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering University of Illinois 1987
- Marlin G. O. Son J. S. “Fluid Mechanics of Mold Filling for Fiber Reinforced Plastics” Advanced Composite Conference ASM 1980