Non-isothermal simulation of the resin transfer moulding process

The resin transfer moulding (RTM) of thin components is investigated by means of numerical simulation. The effect of mechanical dispersion in the gapwise direction is taken into account in the energy and species balances, while no mixing is considered along the midsurface. In a first model, incomplete mixing is considered in the gap, while perfect mixing is assumed in a second model. Several examples are analysed, which highlight the effect of mechanical dispersion on the general heat transfer. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Limited.