Software Platform Automates RTM, SQRTM Process Control

Radius Engineering (Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.) has developed Insights, a proprietary software platform integrated with the company’s composite-processing equipment to improve automation and process control. Available with turnkey workcells, upgraded injection system HMIs and custom integration solutions, Insights is designed to improve resin transfer molding (RTM) and same qualified resin transfer molding (SQRTM) processes by automating functions such as vacuum leak checks, hydrostatic holds, cure holds and resin degassing verification. The company says this reduces human error, increases process consistency and lowers operator training requirements through recipe-driven cycle controls.

Insights for RTM Workcells enables manufacturing engineers to define the RTM/SQRTM cycle using an Excel-based recipe template. Production operators select the cycle and enter part serial numbers for traceability, while the system automates most critical tasks and provides real-time status updates. When manual actions are needed, on-screen prompts and machine lighting guide operators through the process.

Insights for Injectors is embedded in a panel PC, simplifying workflow and eliminating the need for a separate PC cart. Operators receive prompts during resin preparation and plumbing connections, while the control system validates task completion. When combined with turnkey workcells or integrated systems, Insights verifies all preparation steps before infusion begins.

Insights for Integration offers traceability, data collection and automation tools previously limited to turnkey workcells. Delivered on an industrial PC with a configurable PLC rack, it manages temperature control units, chilled water systems, vacuum systems and automated tool valves, supporting a wider range of applications requiring stringent process control.

Radius continues to develop software modules and improvements across Insights versions. The maintenance module, for example, tracks component cycle counts, total run time and alarm history to enable predictive maintenance. Insights data can upload to facility networks for review by maintenance teams, manufacturing engineers or Radius’ service team under annual agreements. Standardizing equipment on the Insights platform gives customers ongoing software enhancements and automation capabilities across both new and existing equipment.