Automated VARTM processing of large-scale composite structures

The vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process (VARTM) is often used to manufacture large-scale composite parts. It offers numerous cost advantages over traditional resin transfer molding (RTM), but current industrial practice lacks automation and control of the infusion process. In this study an advanced VARTM system called Sequential Multi-Port Automated Resin Transfer Molding (SMART-Molding) was developed to fully automate the infusion process. The system incorporates sequential injection VARTM processing, actuators to control the flow, sensors to detect the flow behavior during resin injection and on-line control to optimize the opening and closing of the actuators. The system has been successfully demonstrated during lab-scale process trials.