A cost and performance comparison of LRTM and VI for the manufacture of large scale wind turbine blades

Light resin transfer moulding (LRTM) has been developed as an alternative to vacuum infusion (VI) but a direct comparison between the two processes is needed to quantify any advantages. This paper uses a technical cost model and an empirical study to show the potential financial and performance benefits of LRTM for manufacture of a generic 40 m wind turbine blade shell. The use of LRTM when compared to VI demonstrated a possible 3% cost saving, improved dimensional stability (5.5%), and reductions in resin wastage (3%) and infusion time (25%). A decrease in internal void formation (0.9%) resulted in an increase in mechanical performance (<4%) for LRTM moulded parts. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.