Light Resin Transfer Molding (LRTM) Proves Effective for Large Scale Projects

Many composites manufacturers have transitioned from open molding to closed molding processes to take advantage of the benefits of reduced waste and emissions, process consistency, automation and productivity, and reduced labor and cycle times.

As opposed to open molding, in closed molding, dry fibers are placed in a mold, which is then sealed, and resin is introduced without exposure to the atmosphere during curing. Closed molding results in significantly less waste and fewer emissions, making it more environmentally friendly. It creates a more pleasant work environment for shop workers and technicians.

Closed mold processes like Light Resin Transfer Molding (LRTM) are a suitable alternative to traditional composite manufacturing processes.

There are various closed molding processes that are viable alternatives to producing quality parts at a lower cost. Light resin transfer molding (LRTM), reusable bag molding (RSBM) and vacuum infusion process (VIP) are a few examples of closed molding processes that are currently utilized for a variety of industry composites manufacturing applications.

Light Resin Transfer Molding, or LRTM, is used to create precise parts that also result in good cosmetics. The largest part-by-volume project using LRTM was recently completed in the country of Colombia, where a firm manufactured 840 glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) dome panels to provide durable protection from contamination for the country’s largest potable water tank. The Colombia project also took advantage of the ability to produce parts faster with closed molding, completing the project in a timeframe that required production of eight domed parts per day. The success of the potable water project in Colombia demonstrates that LRTM can be used in other large-scale industrial projects.

Closed molding has joined the ranks of composites manufacturing processes that are making composites materials competitive to alternative and traditionally used materials, creating opportunities for product growth and sustainability.

Composites One, together with the Closed Mold Alliance, is your single source for closed mold products and processes, including vacuum bagging, vacuum infusion processing (VIP), resin transfer molding (RTM), compression molding, pultrusion, and more.

 Learn more about closed mold products and processes, including Aerovac Process Materials, from Composites One and the Closed Mold Alliance.