RESIN TRANSFER MOLDING CORE, PREFORM AND PROCESS

摘要

A resin transfer molding preform and a core for same and a resin transfer molding process employing same are disclosed. The core has an outer surface and comprises a plurality of internal communication passages extending within the interior thereof. At least one such internal communication passage has an inlet opening and at least one discharge opening extending through the outer surface of the core. At least a second internal communication passage has a discharge opening extending through the outer surface of the core and at least one inlet opening. The preform comprises such core with fiber reinforcement material affixed to the outer surface thereof. The resin transfer molding method of the invention comprises positioning such preform in a concavity of a molding tool, closing the molding tool and introducing uncured resin into the cavity through the inlet opening of the first internal communication passage. The cavity is vented through the discharge opening of the second internal communication passage. Subsequently, the resin is cured to produce an FRP composite structure.