Control of resin flow/temperature using multifunctional interdigital electrode array film during a VaRTM process

Most conventional methods for flow control during resin transfer molding have varied the applied pressure using pressure regulators. However, with this method it is difficult to control the flow far from the inlet or outlet points. The present study proposes a flow control scheme by monitoring and actuating flow/temperature using a thin multifunctional interdigital electrode array film. The film is used for estimation of resin impregnation and temperature distribution, and increases the resin temperature by dielectric heating at arbitrary positions on the film, thereby increasing the resin velocity at the required positions. Foam cored GFRP structures were impregnated with resin by VaRTM, and the effectiveness of the flow control scheme assessed. The occurrence of dry spots was effectively prevented. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.