The Science Behind Innovation

Through our subsidiary, TPI Technology, we own the patented SCRIMP technology (Seemann Composites Resin Infusion Molding Process). SCRIMP® is a vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process that uses a vacuum to pull liquid resin into a dry lay-up. It results in lighter, stronger, and more reliable composite structures.

SCRIMP® is a dependable, error-proof method for making very high quality, repeatable composite parts with almost zero VOC emissions. Its advantages include:

• The production of parts that are generally lighter and stronger than conventional FRP parts
• Suitablity for a wide range of sizes - from small components to very large structures
• Highly refined over a fifteen year period
• Proven performance resulting in tens of thousands of large-scale, structural parts
  

SCRIMP® has many wide-ranging applications across a number of industries including wind energy, transportation, marine and military.

SCRIMP® in detail

In the basic SCRIMP® process, fiber reinforcements, core materials and various inserts are laid up in a tool to dry. This is followed by a vacuum bag that is placed over the lay-up and sealed. The part is then placed under vacuum, and the resin is introduced into the part by a resin inlet port(s). The resin is then distributed through the laminate by a flow medium and series of channels, saturating the part. With SCRIMP®, it is possible to flow a lot of resin, a long way, very quickly.

Because the vacuum pressure compacts or debulks the dry fibers, components made using the SCRIMP™ process have higher fiber content by weight and volume than conventionally laid-up components. Glass-to-resin ratios of 70-30% or less can be achieved versus typical 50-50%, resulting in lighter and stronger parts. The vacuum removes air and gasses during this process, eliminating voids. Pressure differentials drive resin uniformly throughout the part providing consistent laminate.

By using a variety of core materials, the structural characteristics of the component part can be highly engineered to suit the specific needs of the end user. Core materials include closed cell foams, end grain balsa wood or any number of different fiber reinforcements such as carbon fiber, fiberglass and/or aramids, vinylester, polyester or epoxy resins. Besides excellent strength-to-weight properties, SCRIMP® parts are also impervious to corrosion, making them particularly ideal for applications where they will be subjected to harsh environmental conditions.

For a detailed understanding of the SCRIMP® patented technology, a review of the individual patents is recommended.

Download more information about SCRIMP® technology.