Vacuum Infusion Process (VIP)
Vacuum Infusion process, also called Resin Infusion or Vacuum Bagging process, is a molding technique that uses vacuum to drive the resin into the laminate. Reinforcing materials, mats, pre-forms, fabrics, are laid into the mold and the vacuum is applied before the resin is introduced. The resin flows easily but slowly into the reinforcements. Permeability of the reinforcements is a critical factor which necessitates use of special molding mats in the core. This process is very complex to design and control; however, when properly executed it can produce high performance, large consolidated parts, such as Wind Blades or boat hulls.