Thursday, August 9, 2012

Resin Transfer Moulding

Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) is an efficient method of producing composite products, suited to medium volume production projects. A catalysed resin is injected into a closed mould already containing a pre-formed reinforcement. The amount of moulding material, usually a thermoset plastic is measured and inserted into the enclosed mould before the moulding can take place. The distinguishing feature of resin transfer moulding is that the reinforcement materials are placed into this cavity and the mould set is closed prior to the introduction of the matrix material.

Vacuum Assisted Resin Injection

The process includes vacuum assisted resin injection (VARI). This produces strong dense products, with dimensional accuracy and a smooth surface on both sides of the moulded component. The finished product can withstand tough environmental conditions and rough handling.

Resin Transfer Moulding Process

Resin Transfer Moulding includes numerous varieties which differ in the mechanics of how the resin is introduced to the reinforcement in the mould cavity. These variations include everything from vacuum infusion to vacuum assisted RTM. By applying pressure and vacuum the resin is forced through dry fabrics in a matched mould, a process which is performed at either ambient or elevated temperature. Once fully wetted the laminate is cured either at room temperature or in an oven. RTM combines relatively low tooling and equipment costs to produce large structural components.

Industries and Products

The process can produce composite components suitable for a vast number of different industries. RTM Products include:

    Automotive Components
    Aerospace Structures
    Aerial Lift Buckets
    Machine Covers and Housing
    Marine
    Wind Deflectors
    Spill Containment
    Medical Office Seating
    Public Transportation
    Agricultural & Farm
    Veterinary & Animal Confinement
    Industrial and Manufacturing
    Corrosion Applications
    Home and Recreation

Benefits and Advantages of RTM

Higher productivity and reduced labour are just some of the advantages of Resin Tranfer Moulding. Other benefits and advantages include:

    Created parts are extremely durable
    Accurate thickness on produced parts
    Created parts will not corrode or rust
    Parts are impact and chemical resistant
    Parts can be fire retardant
    High gloss finishes can be created on both sides of the part
    Reduced waste material

Overall, Resin Transfer Moulding is an extremely efficient method of producing a wide range of composite components. It enables the production of mid-range volumes of parts at a moderate capital investment. RTM has matured to the point of being capable option for composites production and many different industries in the UK can benefit from the RTM process.


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