RTM and Light RTM (LRTM)

RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) is the process of a closed mould resin pressure injection system which makes faster gel and cure times possible for high volume products. It is a process using a two-sided mold set that forms both surfaces of the panel. The lower side is a rigid mold. The upper side can be a rigid or flexible mold. Flexible molds can be made from composite materials, silicone or extruded polymer films such as nylon. The two sides fit together to produce a mold cavity. The distinguishing feature of resin transfer molding is that the reinforcement materials are placed into this cavity and the mold set is closed prior to the introduction of matrix material. Resin transfer molding includes numerous varieties which differ in the mechanics of how the resin is introduced to the reinforcement in the mold cavity. These variations include everything from vacuum infusion (see also resin infusion) to vacuum assisted resin transfer molding. This process can be performed at either ambient or elevated temperature.

Light Resin Transfer Moulding (also known as RTM Light and LRTM) process uses closed mould technology where two finished sides are required and fibreglass unit production times are needed to be greatly reduced. LRTM is a low cost, close tolerance alternative for medium volume applications and is now widely utilised in the Medical, Marine, Automotive and Retail industries. It also beneficial because it is seen as the natural progression from open moulding process such as hand lay and spray lay and is more responsive in terms of resin flow over the mould. LRTM is not quite as benefical as RTM in such a way that resin is pulled through by vacuum or injected at a central point at a lower pressure than its higher cost equivalent.

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