high-speed rtm
how to achieve lightweight volume production
why high-speed rtm?

Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) is the most established state-of-the-art technology in the production of structural composite parts with high lightweight potential. RTM processes comprise various techniques for the manufacturing of parts based on net-shape preforms.

High-Speed RTM with fast-curing thermoset resin systems such as epoxy and polyurethane with curing times of less than 120 seconds allow for high volume production.

 

High-Speed RTM is characterized by:

broad selection of high-performance materials

Besides a variety of continuous fiber textiles – such as multi-axial fabrics or carbon and glass fiber, various customized resin systems exist – from epoxy to polyurethane, polyester and vinylester. The high fiber volume content allows outstanding mechanical properties for structural and safety-critical parts.

short cycle times

Highly reactive RTM resins with specific curing characteristics and the use of precise complementary process equipment allow for very short cycle times of less than three minutes.

high surface quality

Well-engineered mold equipment combined with adapted resin systems lead to very high surface qualities.

complex and large structures

Elaborated process control and advanced textile preforming technologies, combined with new mold technologies e.g. for inserts, cut-outs or the use of multiple materials enable complex and functionalized large structures.

automation and large-scale production

The good reproducibility of the RTM processes allows for mass production of complex structures. High-speed RTM processes are established in different automotive part productions, like engine hoods, roofs, spare wheel wells, deck lid inner shells or even whole passenger cabs.

Polyurethane-Carbon Fiber Composites Processed in HP-RTM © picture: Covestro AG
use cases
high speed rtm
products and services
your partners along the complete production chain

Conbility GmbH

Process Design and Modelling | Process Simulation and Benchmarks | Process Costing | Consulting

Covestro Deutschland AG

Materials Database | Simulation | Design | Resins | Additives | Release Agents | Semi-finished Materials | Prototyping

Fagor Arrasate

Press Systems | Preforming | Automation | Process Simulation

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

Simulation | Resins | Binders | Release Agents | Adhesives | Prototyping | Material Qualification

KraussMaffei Technologies GmbH

Press Systems | Preforming | Tooling | Mixing and Dosing | Finishing and Assembly | Automation | Control| Plant Manufacturer | Prototyping | Process Consulting

Telene SAS

Resins | Joined Application Development | Structural Glass Fiber Reinforced Composites

r&d
we jointly work on r&d projects

As AZL Partner Companies, we work closely together as a workgroup on projects supporting the further development of high-speed RTM technology and its material systems to achieve a broad transfer to serial production.

high-speed rtm matrices | workgroup

We work on pre-competitive research and development questions such as the standardization of RTM material data sheets, the definition of needs for highly reactive material test methods and quality assurance possibilities in the RTM process.

 

Download the Workgroup Flyer here!

standardized material data sheet | workgroup project

Standardization is mandatory for industrialization. We are developing a uniform datasheet to be applied throughout the entire composite industry as a first selection tool. This data sheet will address highly reactive material systems such as epoxy, vinylester, polyurethanes and reactive polyamides.

After expert interviews and an evaluated survey with material suppliers, machine suppliers and designers as well as an analysis of existing data sheets and different test standards, a draft of a standardized material data sheet has been developed.

The AZL forms an international lightweight network of 9 institutes on the RWTH Aachen Campus and more than 80 companies from 21 countries involved in lightweight production. Learn more…

business platforms
your entry into mass production lightweight technologies

This business platform provides you with information on high-speed RTM as well as established suppliers and innovative development partners along the whole value chain. We are a group of leading companies active in RTM and thermoset composites with a broad experience and product range.

Find more lightweight business partners at our other business platforms.

Besides our individual services, we support you with:

  • Consulting and benchmarking
  • Market and technology studies
  • Project definition and management
  • Recommendation of business contacts
  • Funding recommendations

Contact us!

contact
get in touch with us

business platform ”high-speed rtm”

Philipp Fröhlig
Senior Project Manager
+49 241 475735 14
info@lightweight-partners.com

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