Development of a flow model based simulation for RTM of Blackglas ceramic composites

The development of a macroscopic flow computer model simulation of the fill behavior of an interstage seal component is described. The simulations are used to examine the macroscopic model consequences of the preform architecture and the process variations on processing behavior. Further, the work has demonstrated that Darcy law-based macroscopic models can be used to describe flow behavior in Blackglas/Nextel materials systems. Simulation of component fill process behavior provides insight into preform and tool design impact on process behavior. This capability will allow designers to assess manufacturability impacts of design decisions. The simulation developed for the generic seal component for the LC³ program has shown that the component fill behavior should not present any processing difficulties based on the anticipated component geometry and candidate preform architecture.