Experimental RTM Manufacturing Analysis of Carbon/Epoxy Composites for Aerospace Application: Non-crimp and Woven Fabric Differences

Author(s)

Brocks, Thatiane ; Shiino, Marcos Yutaka ; Hilario Cioffi, Maria Odila ; Cornelis Voorwald, Herman Jacobus ; Caporalli Filho, Angelo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: MATERIALS RESEARCH-IBERO-AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MATERIALS; v. 16, n. 5, p. 8-pg., 2013-09-01.

Abstract

The success of manufacturing composite parts by liquid composite molding processes with RTM depends on tool designs, efficient heat system, a controlled injection pressure, a stabilized vacuum system, besides of a suitable study of the preform lay-up and the resin system choice. This paper reports how to assemble a RTM system in a laboratory scale by specifying heat, injection and vacuum system. The design and mold material were outlined by pointing out its advantages and disadvantages. Four different carbon fiber fabrics were used for testing the RTM system. The injection pressure was analyzed regarding fiber volume content, preform compression and permeability, showing how these factors can affect the process parameters. The glass transition temperature (Tg) around 203 degrees C matched with the aimed temperature of the mold which ensured good distribution of the heat throughout the upper and lower mold length. The void volume fraction in a range of 2% confirmed the appropriate RTM system and parameters choice. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 06/02121-6 - Composite processing by RTM
• Grantee: Maria Odila Hilário Cioffi
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• FAPESP's process: 09/03284-4 - Structural Composites via RTM for landing gear aplication
• Grantee: Thatiane Brocks
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• FAPESP's process: 11/01937-0 - Crack growth rate in 5HS carbon/epoxy composites manufactured by RTM: Relationship between axial loadings with pure modes of delamination I and II
• Grantee: Marcos Yutaka Shiino
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 12/07646-0 - Evaluation of pressure gradient effect of RTM process on 5HS laminate by conducting DCB fatigue test
• Grantee: Marcos Yutaka Shiino
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate