Characterization of high-pressure RTM processes for manufacturing of high performance composites

The current paper addresses new variants of the RTM process namely High Pressure-Injection Resin Transfer Molding (HP-IRTM) and High Pressure - Compression Resin Transfer Molding (HP-CRTM) for manufacturing of continuous fiber reinforced composites with high fiber volume content. Both these process utilize High Pressure RTM equipment for precise dosing and mixing of highly reactive epoxy resin and amine hardener with relatively high throughput rates. The objective of the proposed study was to investigate the effects of parameters such as mold gap and resin injection time on the quality of the respective process variants. The influence of these process variables on the quality of the laminates and the mechanical properties is analyzed. Finally the applicability of the HP-RTM process variants for high volume manufacturing of composites is discussed.