Compression resin transfer moulding CRTM in polymer matrix composites

Compression resin transfer moulding (CRTM) in polymer matrix composites 

Key words compression resin transfer moulding, compaction response, permeability, numerical analysis, optimisation. 

The CRTM process is described schematically in Fig. 11.1. The filling stage comprises a combination of injection and compression driven flows. Unlike RTM, the mould is not completely closed prior to the initiation of filling. The mould is closed to some predetermined position, which results in lower overall fibre volume fraction, and hence a lower global resin flow resistance offered by the preform. It is also possible to leave a small empty cavity on 

1 Schematic description of CRTM. (a) Placement of preform, (b) closure to cavity thickness for injection, (c) injection, (d) compression driven flow and (e) cure and demoulding. 

2 (a) Key process parameters. Variation of cavity thickness and clamping force with time, (b) applying constant speed and (c) constant force during compression filling. 

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Bickerton S, Kelly P. Compression resin transfer moulding (CRTM) in polymer matrix composites. In Advani S, Hsiao K-T, editors. Manufacturing techniques for polymer matrix composites (PMCs). Cambridge (UK) Woodhead Publishing Limited 2012. 

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