Double-Chamber Vacuum Resin Transfer Molding (DCVRTM) Process (260)

The University of Dayton Research Institute has developed a Double-Chamber Vacuum Resin Transfer Molding (DCVRTM) Process to fabricate composite parts. DCVRTM is a hybrid of resin transfer molding (RTM) and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). It is the first liquid composite molding process that employs two cavities. One cavity shapes the preform, while an adjacent cavity is used to adjust the mold clamping force during molding and curing. In this way, resin can infiltrate preforms at low resistance (high permeability), yet cure to form products with high fiber contents. In this process, the two chambers are created when the mold is closed on elastomeric seals; an inner chamber which contains the fiber preform and comprises the mold cavity, and an outer annular chamber or brim cavity.

The DCVRTM process retains the advantages of RTM and VARTM while eliminating their disadvantages. Since atmospheric pressure is the only clamping force used, the mold may be made of wood, plastic, or composites and employed to fabricate parts of larger size with higher quality resin infusion techniques. Other advantages of the DCVRTM process include improved operational flexibility, reduced cost, improved composite quality, and no volatile organic compound emissions.

U.S. Serial No. 09/335,617 filed June 18, 1999.

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