Advanced Composites Research to Reduce Cost

The high manufacturing success rate achieved in glass fabric/sandwich constructions fabrications using the Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) process has not been duplicated for carbon fabric parts. The purpose of this program is to develop and demonstrate an Enhanced Modeling Infusion and Sensor Technology (EMIST) for infusing complex and large scale composite parts, such as those proposed in the DDG-1000 deckhouse. The technology will contain both intelligent modeling and simulation capabilities as its analytical base as well as innovative infusion flow sensors, for the end result of producing consistent, high quality carbon laminates and sandwich structures, thereby significantly reducing total ownership costs. Different infusion methodologies, as guided by EMIST, and the risks associated with the proposed infusion technologies will be evaluated as determined by flow model and fabrication validation study results and fabrication team assessment.