The new technique, aptly named Fast Flow LRTM, is a blend of MVP’s Flex Moulding Process and Light Resin Transfer Moulding (LRTM) and utilises collapsible resin channels for a faster resin flow.
The process was brought about by the need to meet faster cure times for large parts using high viscosity resins such as fire-retardant materials. Further trials and testing are currently underway with a large automotive manufacturer.
When using a traditional LRTM mould, the resin flow speed is dependent on the distance between the resin channel and centre of the part during injection. Utilising the same silicone collapsible resin channels developed for the Flex Moulding Process, MVP’s Fast Flow LRTM technique uses a unique channel arrangement allowing channels to be installed closer together to decrease the resin flow distance and speed up injection times. This process is capable of injecting a fifty square-foot part in under four minutes using only one injection port, while also delivering a good back side surface aspect equivalent to traditional LRTM. By injecting the resin from the centre to the border, the part demoulds with a finished look and no visible resin channels, wasted materials or excess resin.
MVP’s Fast Flow LRTM process draws from years of experience as a leader in closed moulding and blends techniques to deliver faster, more efficient part production.
In the Fast Flow LRTM process, the female mould is constructed like an LRTM mould, but there are some key differences in the counter mould construction. It’s built with a silicone skin including a collapsible resin channel, then reinforced with composites. For this step of the process, MVP has developed a unique solution for bonding composites to silicone. The rigid counter mould provides a good quality back side surface, while the silicone membrane shows the reinforcement of the produced part.
MVP has been a long-standing leader in closed mould technology for decades with the developments of key techniques and accessories to complement its advanced injection equipment. The MVP technical support specialists travel the globe to offer comprehensive trainings and educational opportunities for manufacturers to learn more about closed moulding procedures and techniques.
