High performance yachts utilise a large amount of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastics (CFRP) in masts, booms, hulls, decks, etc. The commonly applied manufacturing method is consolidation (applied pressure at raised temperatures) of fibre reinforcements pre-impregnated with thermoset polymer resins (a.k.a. Prepreg). Prepreg composites are typically processed within large pressurised ovens (autoclaves), after the time consuming and mostly manual process of laminate layup. This project will explore the significant cost savings (labour and material costs) available through application of a significantly different manufacturing process; Resin Infusion. In this process the fibrous reinforcing structure (or preform) is first laid up in the mould. The preform is then contained under a vacuum bag, placed under vacuum, and subsequently infused with a liquid epoxy resin. Through manufacture of flat plates and an appropriate technology demonstrator, a robust resin infusion process will be developed for the industrial partner, and key material properties will be compared to parts produced using autoclave prepreg. The project will involve material (fibres, resin) selection and characterisation, development of appropriate fibre layup techniques, and will explore innovative use of an autoclave for the mould filling stage of Resin Infusion. Southern Spars is the industrial partner for this project, being one of the main collaborators in a large NZ funded research programme running at the CACM.
Undergraduate
This project will prove the feasibility of applying the Resin Infusion process to the manufacture of primary load-bearing yachting structures, and provide a potential route for significant cost savings for the industrial partner. A recommended manufacturing procedure will be defined, and key mechanical performance parameters of the resulting parts quantified. Student participants will gain knowledge on materials and processing techniques relevant to high performance marine applications, and will work closely with staff at Southern Spars.
None
Lab allocations have not been finalised