Simulation of 3d Rtm Process Using Solid Shell Element

Introduction In the era of process modeling of composite materials, 3D simulation of manufacturing processes is desirable considering the manufacturing trend where parts became more complex leading to complex 3D stress-strain states. Moreover, coupling of sub-processes that are happening simultaneously such as macro-scale preform processes, flow advancement and solid and fluid interaction requires full 3D description of the problem. The development is exemplified considering RTM process where the main focus of the modeling will be on the flow advancement into fiber preform and flow front capturing. To this end, the theory of two phase porous media is used along with assuming hyper-elastic material response for the fiber bed to formulate the problem. A finite element formulation and implementation of the two-phase problem is developed for incompressible constituents.