Finite element modeling of the resin transfer molding process based on homogenization techniques

New aspects are introduced into the numerical simulation of the mold filling phase of the Resin Transfer Molding process of composites manufacturing. The problem formulation is based on homogenization techniques. The well-known analogy with the micro-level analysis is mentioned and the permeability determination in the case of single and double porosity is shown. Regarding the macro-level analysis, the analogous problem, which has not been used earlier for such purpose, is discussed. The determination of a resin front position in orthotropic and multiple-layer preforms is addressed. Results obtained by the finite element code ANSYS are compared with previous works.