Patent ID: 6517769
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: B29C,Y10T

Abstract:
A forming system for carrying out a resin transfer molding process, comprising:a first metal mold tool and a second metal mold tool that are openable and closeable relative to each other so as to selectively open or close a mold cavity that is formed by said first and second metal mold tools; a resin injection device adapted to provide a curable resin; and a preform unit for producing a fiber-reinforced composite structural component; wherein said preform unit is arranged in said mold cavity and comprises: an envelope which includes an envelope sleeve and a first closure arrangement that closes a first end of said envelope sleeve and that is connected to said resin injection device, and a preform body which is arranged, surrounded and completely enclosed within said envelope and which includes reinforcing fibers arranged with spaces therebetween in an initial state, and a curable resin that is injected by said resin injection device through said first closure arrangement so as to be impregnated into said spaces between said reinforcing fibers in a resin-impregnated state; wherein said envelope seals said curable resin therein and prevents said resin from directly entering said mold cavity outside of said envelope and from directly contacting said first and second metal mold tools.