To support automated resin transfer (RTM) and wet moulding composite manufacturing methods Kistler Instruments says it has produced a combined pressure and temperature sensor specifically for these applications.
The company explains that characteristic process phases such as evacuation, filling and curing can be identified from the pressure curve allowing process parameters to be optimised to make production more cost-effective. The pressure signal can also be used as a control variable for individual process steps for online process control.
It’s claimed the new Type 4001A sensor meets all of these demands plus the integrated temperature element, accurate up to 275°C, monitors the temperature conditions inside the mould allowing automatic temperature compensation to correct the pressure signal due to thermal changes during the process.