PAM-RTM helps automotive engineers test complex manufacturing process of composites
PAM-RTM helps automotive engineers test complex manufacturing process of composites
Keywords: Automotive, Manufacturing, Software, Composites
ESI Group, a leading provider of virtual prototyping and manufacturing solutions, recently announced that PAM-RTM (formerly LCMFLOT) software is helping Ford Motor Company accelerate and improve the manufacturing process of composite parts. PAM-RTM software simulates liquid composite moulding (LCM),where a dry preform is held in a closed mould and injected with a resin.
Lightweight thin shell moulding tools have been utilised for many years at Ford for the manufacture of composite components by liquid moulding. Compared to machined metal moulds, this tool construction method reduces drastically the tool’s weight and saves significant capital investment.
However, the stiffness of the shells that form the component geometry is insufficient to withstand the cavity pressure encountered during the moulding cycle. Consequently, support structures are required to limit mould deflections and maintain component dimensional accuracy.
Resin transfer moulding (RTM) is one of the liquid moulding processes used by Ford Research in the United States. It offers ideal production capabilities and economics for large, structural and technically complex parts.
Combining new technologies for manufacturing composite parts and RTM simulation for designing the best process, Ford validated the RTM process as the most cost-effective solution to produce the side-panel of the cutting-edge technology Aston Martin Vanquish.
For more information, visit ESI Group site: http://www.esi-group.com
