Composite Materials Workshop

Introduction to Vacuum-Assisted
Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM)

 

October 10 - 11 , 2006
Composites Manufacturing Science Laboratory
University of Delaware (Newark Campus)

Register Online!

Course Description

The Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) process is a Liquid Molding Process used to fabricate large-scale composite structures that can have substantial laminate thicknesses. The closed-molding approach dramatically reduces emissions compared to open molding while allowing the use of low-cost tooling.  The course will introduce engineers and technicians to the fundamentals of the process with hands-on lab classes as well as theoretical lectures. The lectures include a review of the important process parameters, an introduction to simple analytical tools to predict the flow behavior, and a practical demonstration of the Liquid Injection Molding Simulation (LIMS) software, a finite element package capable of predicting the flow in complex geometries.  A focus of the class is also the practical aspects of the VARTM process. The class will characterize the permeability of several reinforcement and distribution media materials and fabricate several specimens from flat panels to a complex geometry part. 

Who Should Attend

Engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel involved in the design, manufacture, and testing of composite parts.

Benefits

A mixture of theoretical and hands-on instruction provides and excellent understanding of design and manufacturing capabilities. This course provides a good introduction for novices plus advanced tools for those familiar with composites manufacturing processes.

The Center for Composite Materials at
The University of Delaware

The Center for Composite Materials at the University of Delaware is internationally recognized for research, education, and technology transfer in the areas of materials and synthesis, multifunctional composites, processing science, mechanics and design, sensing and control, and software.  Utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, the Center develops models and simulations in a "virtual manufacturing" environment for process optimization and tool design that leads to improved quality, affordability, and innovative new composite manufacturing processes.  By controlling the microstructure and molecular architecture of existing and next generation materials, new composites are designed to accomplish multiple performance objectives in a single system.  The Center develops on-line sensors and devices for monitoring composites from manufacturing to end-of-life and validates process control schemes using simulations and manufacturing workcells.

Agenda

Tuesday October 10 , 8:00 a.m. - Registration;
Tuesday & Wednesday October 10 & 11 , Class times: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

• Topics include:

  • Liquid composite mold processes – issues in flow and modeling
  • Beam design for optimum materials and processing
  • Material characterization
  • Permeability of fabric
  • Viscosity of resin
  • Permeability versus fiber volume
  • Design of infusion using design tools and Liquid Injection Molding Simulation (LIMS)
  • Infusion of two beams
  • Parts design
  • Advanced tools
  • Adaptive infusion tools
  • Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) of complex parts
  • QA/QC and destructive testing
  • Automated Resin Transfer Molding

 

Registration and General Information

Program Fee: $795 per person

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: September 26, 2006

REGISTRATION CONFIRMATION:  A confirmation letter including directions to campus and parking will be mailed to your home on or before September 26, 2006.
CANCELLATIONS and SUBSTITUTIONS: Refunds granted if the request is received in writing by the course registration deadline. No refunds after that date, but substitutions are permitted up to the first day of class.
ACCOMMODATIONS and TRANSPORTATION: Participants are responsible for making their own housing and transportation arrangements.  Air transportation should be arranged to either Philadelphia or Baltimore airport.  By calling early and asking for the University of Delaware affiliated rates, you can also obtain discounts at the following hotels:
Courtyard by Marriott - UD Campus Hotel - 400 Pencader Way, Newark, DE, 1-302-737-0900 ($144+tax/night)
The following are each about one mile from campus:
Sleep Inn - 630 S. College Ave.(Rt.896N), Newark, DE, 1-302-453-1700 ($79+tax/night)
Howard Johnson Inn - 1119 S. College Ave., Newark, DE, 1-302-368-8521 ($62+tax/night)