Using (VA)RTM with a Rigid Mould to Produce Fibre Metal Laminates with Proven Impact Strength

Abstract

The production of fibre metal laminates (FMLs) is a time consuming and expensive procedure. This paper shows the application of the vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding ((VA)RTM) technique using an injection unit and a rigid mould for the production of FMLs. This processing technique, in combination with a corona discharge activation of the aluminium surface, can lead to enormous reductions to the cycle time. To prove the quality of the produced FML, impact tests were carried out. The influence of the impact energy on the specimen is observed using a deformation scan and ultrasound C-Scan. Furthermore, the peak forces and permanent deflections of the tested specimen were analysed.

New Advances and Future Possibilities in Forming Technology of Hybrid Metal–Polymer Composites Used in Aerospace Applications

“…The RTM/LRTM method allows the share of reinforcement in the total mass of the composite (over 60%) to be increased compared to, for example, hand lay-up lamination [317]. RTM and LRTM technologies are mainly used in the construction of boats and water equipment [318][319][320] and in aircraft construction [321] as well as automotive and medical composite moulding applications [322][323][324][325][326]. After the impregnation, the laminate component can cure, usually at room temperature [56,57].…”

“…in the construction of boats and water equipment [318][319][320] and in aircraft construction [321] as well as automotive and medical composite moulding applications [322][323][324][325][326] After the impregnation, the laminate component can cure, usually at room temperature [56,57]. The most important parameters determining the effective preforming saturation in the RTM process are [327]:  an appropriate injection pressure gradient,  good wettability in the fibre-resin system, and  good tightness of the impregnation system.…”

Optimization of delamination resistance of vacuum infused glass laminate aluminum reinforced epoxy (GLARE) using various surface preparation techniques

“…Autoclave process is commonly used to manufacture fiber metal laminates. However, in the last few years, (VARTM) process gained more popularity as it is suitable to produce big part, free voids and hybrid cost-effective materials of top quality [13][14][15][16][17]. Prior to fiber metal laminate fabrication, several treatments on aluminum surface have been performed to increase the adhesive bonding strength.…”