A new approach toward the technology and technical knowledge of design and manufacturing of composite vessels by usnig vacum infusion process (VIP)

The vacuum infusion process promises to improve quality of the laminate, better worker conditions , a reduction of labour and better repeatability . Flow analysis makes it possible to use proven engineering techniques to develop and improve the process. This allows for much better control over the considerable investment needed to switch to infusion and also makes it possible to continue improving a working process at minimal risk. However, it will not solve every issue. This paper will outline the modeling, required to understand what it can and can not do. Several case examples will be presented to illustrate the application of flow analysis to infusion of large boat hulls and desks, and also discuss several practical issues that we had to deal with to make the process work.

Keywords:

VIP , resin , infusion , RTM , vacuum