Assessment of flow and cure monitoring using direct current and alternating current sensing in vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding

摘要: Vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) is an emerging manufacturing technique that holds promise as affordable alternative to traditional autoclave and automated fiber placement for producing large-scale structural parts. In VARTM, the fibrous preform laid on a single-sided tool, which then bagged along with infusion vacuum lines. The infused through preform, causes simultaneous wetting in its in-plane transverse directions. An effective sensing essential so comprehensive information pertaining of arrival at various locations, cure gradients associated thickness presence dry spots may be monitored. current work, direct (dc) alternating sensing/monitoring techniques were adopted developing systematic understanding position plain weave S2-glass preforms Dow Derakane vinyl ester VE 411-350, Shell EPON RSL 2704/2705 Si-AN epoxy matrix systems. A SMARTweave dc system was utilized conduct parametric studies: (a) compare flow stitched non-stitched preforms; (b) investigate influence sensor positioning, i.e. top, middle bottom layers; (c) positioning process accessories, point composite panel. found sensitive all variations introduced study. Furthermore, results obtained from compared monitoring studies conducted by using embedded interdigitated (IDEX) dielectric sensors. indicate viable obtaining cure, more superior terms global information, contrast localized approach.