Simple Models of CRTM Process

The CRTM technique (Compression Resin Transfer Moulding) is a derivative of the RTM process. Contrary to the RTM process, it enables the moulding of composite parts with a high content of fibers and a faster production rate. It is composed of a stage of injection of the resin and a stage of compression of the mould which can occur separately or simultaneously. The injection phase will be controlled either by the injection pressure or the flow rate. The phase of compression will be controlled by imposing the mould displacement or the imposed force of the mobile part of the mould. The first part of this study is deviated to the semi analytical modelling of the CRTM processes with imposed mould compression force. This approach will enable us analyze the process criteria (processing time, lost resin volume, mould closing force...) which are necessary for the process optimization. Some requirements associated with the manufacturing process, such as (the imposed fibre volume fraction, clamping force, mould ability ...) or the technical feasibility will be analyzed and taken into account. Finally comparisons among the various possible manufacturing scenarios will be presented.