Preform (3D) - Preform Properties dialog

The Preform Properties tab of the Preform (3D) dialog is used to define the porosity and permeability properties of the preform material.

To access this dialog, select the preform elements on your model, click (Geometry tab > Properties panel > Edit), or right-click and select Properties, then select the Preform Properties tab. Click Edit to open the Preform (3D) dialog.

Dialog elements

Widget	Explanation
Preform porosity and permeability (3D)	Several data should be specified to ensure optimal results: Porosity (phi) Porosity represents the packing density of the preform in the cavity. Porosity is defined as the ratio of the void volume to the cavity volume, before the cavity is filled with resin. The void volume is equal to the cavity volume minus the volume occupied by the fiber reinforcement. Permeability in 3 principal directions (K11, K22, K33) Permeability is the ability of a fluid to flow through a porous medium. The greater the permeability, the more easily the fluid flows through the medium. For RTM and SRIM processes, permeability depends on the network structure of the fiber mat. In 3D, the permeability is represented by the values in 3 principal directions. Reference thickness The part thickness at which the porosity/permeability are measured.

Widget

Explanation

Preform porosity and permeability (3D)

Several data should be specified to ensure optimal results:

Porosity (phi)

Porosity represents the packing density of the preform in the cavity. Porosity is defined as the ratio of the void volume to the cavity volume, before the cavity is filled with resin. The void volume is equal to the cavity volume minus the volume occupied by the fiber reinforcement.

Permeability in 3 principal directions (K11, K22, K33)

Permeability is the ability of a fluid to flow through a porous medium. The greater the permeability, the more easily the fluid flows through the medium. For RTM and SRIM processes, permeability depends on the network structure of the fiber mat. In 3D, the permeability is represented by the values in 3 principal directions.

Reference thickness

The part thickness at which the porosity/permeability are measured.