Numerical simulation of RTM process using the extended finite element method combined with the level set method

Abstract

Numerical simulation for resin transfer moulding manufacturing process is attempted using the extended finite element method combined with the level set method. The level set method is used to transport the resin flow front at each time step during the mould filling. Extended finite element method allows to obtaining a good numerical precision of the resin pressure near the resin flow front, where the gradient of the pressure could be discontinuous. The enriched shape functions of extended finite element method are derived using the level set values so as to correctly describe these shape functions with the resin flow front. In addition, the position of the resin flow front at each time step is calculated by an implicit characteristic Galerkin finite element method. Some examples are presented to validate our study in comparison with analytical or experimental results and to illustrate its industrial applications.