VARTM PROCESS MODEL DEVELOPMENT

摘要

A three-dimensional model was developed to simulate the VARTM manufacturing process of complex shape composite structures. The model was developed in modular form and includes submodels that describe the resin flow, heat transfer, preform compaction, cure kinetics, and residual stresses during infiltration and cure. The present investigation was focused on verification of resin flow submodel, which was modified to include capillary effects. Experiments were performed to obtain data that can be used to verify the resin flow submodel. Flat-plate, E-glass fabric preforms were infiltrated with an ambient cure vinyl ester resin. During infiltration, the resin flow patterns and the total infiltration time were measured. The flow patterns predicted by the model agreed well with the flow patterns observed during infiltration. Agreement between the model calculated and measured resin infiltration times was excellent.