Effects of vacuum infusion configuration on homogeneity of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites for automotive components

In this study, the effects of vacuum infusion configuration on homogeneities glass fiber reinforced vinyl ester composites have been evaluated. Three different sizes samples (100x100, 500x500, and 1000x1000 mm) were fabricated. configurations used to fabricate samples. The first two had one inlet, while third inlets for resin infusion. Thickness variations hardness (Shore D) measurements performed determine results revealed that, small size samples, no obvious effect homogeneity both in terms thickness values. However, larger where is introduced into preform center component showed better than other configurations. Even a distribution assessed with introduction sample, although also resulted swellings central areas sample. observed around inlet all study shows that flow preferable but swelling must be considered when dimensional tolerances are critical.