1. Characteristics of Core Mat for RTM

What is RTM Core Mat? Fiberglass Core Mat is a composite reinforcement material designed for RTM process. It is usually composed of two layers of fiberglass mat sandwiched with an elastic resin interlayer. It can not only play a structural support role, but also maintain good resin fluidity, achieving a balance between lightweight and enhanced performance. Its core characteristics are as follows:

The middle core layer has good expansion: it can be compressed and rebound to form a hollow structure, increasing thickness and rigidity;

Good resin flow conductivity: ensure uniform resin distribution during RTM injection;

Enhanced insulation and sound insulation: the structure is hollow, effectively blocking the transmission of heat and sound;

Suitable for complex shape mold molding: soft and easy to fit, efficient laying.

2. Advantages of Core Mat for RTM

Improve product thickness stability

Enhance stiffness without significantly increasing weight

Improve resin flow and curing efficiency

Improve product sound absorption and insulation performance

3. Typical application scenarios

Lightweight automotive structural parts: engine cover, wheel cover, bottom guard plate, etc.

Rail transit interior: lightweight, high-rigidity structural parts

Ship internal components: bulkheads, floors and other intermediate sandwich materials

Clean rooms and chemical containers: Enhance interlayer thickness support and insulation function

4. Purchase and use guide

 Common specifications:

Surface material: chopped mat, stitched mat, surface mat, etc. are optional

Core material type: PP

Width specification: 250-2600mm;

Adaptation process: Especially suitable for RTM, VARTM, compression molding and other closed mold processes

Suggestions for use:

Place the core layer in the middle when laying to ensure alignment of the upper and lower felt layers;

Pre-laying the flow channel design helps to quickly infiltrate;

Pay attention to pressure control during curing to prevent excessive compaction from affecting the elastic structure.

5.FAQ 

Can the core layer be used alone?

The core layer material itself does not have sufficient strength or impact resistance, and is usually only the middle layer in the composite material structure. The layer alone cannot withstand external forces or provide complete protection functions, but is easily damaged due to lack of surface support. In practical applications, the core layer is often used in conjunction with glass fiber reinforced materials such as chopped strand mat, stitched strand mat, and woven fabric to improve the overall strength, rigidity, and toughness of the product.

Does the RTM process affect the injection?

The  core mat is a very practical material in the RTM process. Its porous structure helps to guide the flow of resin. It will not only not hinder the injection of glue, but also speed up the diffusion of resin inside the mold, reducing blind spots and bubble residues. Compared with the use of chopped strand mat or stitched strand mat alone, the core mat has a better flow-guiding effect, making the entire injection process more efficient and uniform, and is particularly suitable for large-sized or complex-structured products.

6. Summary

The core mat for RTM is a composite structural material that integrates reinforcement, light weight, flow conductivity, and sound insulation. It is widely used in automobiles, rail transit, ships and industrial products. It provides ideal thickness support and process adaptation for closed mold molding, and is a key link in the manufacture of high-performance composite materials.We are a fiberglass manufacturer in China. If you are looking for high-quality core mat, our products are the right choice.

For more information or to obtain our product information, please contact us via email at annayu@169chem.net or phone 18909016373.