Sensor system for monitoring impregnation and cure during resin transfer molding

In the resin transfer molding (RTM) fabrication of composites, knowledge of the position of a moving resin front during impregnation is important for process optimization. We describe here a simple, inexpensive, multi‐point sensor system based on DC conductometry for determination of resin position...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Polymer composites Vol. 17; no. 2; pp. 312 - 316
Main Authors:	Schwab, Scott D., Levy, Ram L., Glover, Gregg G.
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	Hoboken Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company 01-04-1996 Willey
Subjects:	Applied sciences Exact sciences and technology Injection moulding Machinery and processing Moulding Plastics Polymer industry, paints, wood Technology of polymers Injection molding Impregnation Transfer molding Curing(plastics) Monitoring Measurement sensor
Online Access:	Get full text
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Summary:	In the resin transfer molding (RTM) fabrication of composites, knowledge of the position of a moving resin front during impregnation is important for process optimization. We describe here a simple, inexpensive, multi‐point sensor system based on DC conductometry for determination of resin position in an RTM mold. This Resin Position Sensor (RPS) system consists of a matrix of small sensors embedded in the RTM tool, whose combined output can be used to produce a resin flow pattern at any given time after the start of impregnation. As it cures, the resin resistance increases and the sensor can then function as a cure monitor. A large, 24‐sensor RTM tool was fabricated for demonstration of the RPS. Flow contour maps generated from sensor data during impregnation of both E‐glass and carbon fiber preforms are shown.
Bibliography:	istex:4EDED58B2A01358F17A5CC82756BB96030BF2BE3 ark:/67375/WNG-152NN2VQ-K ArticleID:PC10616
ISSN:	0272-8397 1548-0569
DOI:	10.1002/pc.10616