Process analysis of resin transfer molding with autoclave-assisted laminate consolidation

An improved resin transfer molding process was implemented by the assistance of the autoclave in epoxy/carbon fiber composite manufacturing. In the autoclave-assisted resin transfer molding (ARTM) process, the mold-filling pressure and the consolidation pressure were controlled by the autoclave in a continuous fashion during the mold filling and consolidation stages. Using a smart spacer inserted between the RTM molds, the part consolidation was effectively achieved after the complete mold filling, which consequently improved processing as well as performance characteristics of advanced composite materials. Visualizing the resin-front advancement, anisotropic permeabilities of several reinforcement fabrics were collectively determined by comparing the experimental results and Darcy's law. A finite element/control volume method was used to predict the resin pressure and flow front advancement during the ARTM process. Finally, the processing variables of resin bleeding, consolidation pressure, and surface formers were investigated to identify the ARTM processing and structural characteristics in high-performance composite utilization.