VARTM for cosmetic parts (low gsm surface ply etc)

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#1

Hi,

Just prior commencing some trials I wondered if anyone could give some advice.

I am looking to make a cosmetic part using VARTM.

As would normally be the case it will be a lower GSM/K surface ply with higher GSM backing plies.

There will obviously be different rates at which the flow front progresses through the differing GSM fabrics.

Does this cause any problems or is it best to stick with the same GSM fabric throughout the laminate?

It is not a structural part.

TIA

John

#2

Does not matter. Indeed resin travels with different speed through different materials, but as all materials are stacked, the resin not only travels through the plane of the materials, but also from one ply to the other, leveling out differences.

#3

Hi Herman,

Thanks for the info. I suspected the z-direction would have some influence and glad to hear the confirmation from someone who has had experience.

John