Effect of Press Condition on the Mechanical Properties of GFRTP Molded by the Melted Thermoplastic-Resin Transfer Molding

Abstract

The application of Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastics (FRTP) is expected to reduce the weight of automobiles. The press and injection hybrid molding method was developed to mold FRTP with high strength and high stiffness by giving complicated shapes such as ribs and bosses to the outer shell structure of FRTP with continuous fiber. However, as this method uses high-cost FRTP laminated sheets, it is necessary to develop a low-cost FRTP manufacturing process. In this study, we aim at the development of Melted Thermoplastic-Resin Transfer Molding (MT-RTM) to mold FRTP with complicated shape at low cost by injecting melted short fiber reinforced thermoplastics into dry fabric. The effects of press condition on the mechanical properties of GFRTP molded by MT-RTM were clarified by bending tests. GFRTP molded at high mold temperature and high closing speed showed high mechanical properties because of good impregnation of injection resin into continuous fabric in the outer shell structure.