The resin dispenser is an electro-mechanical hand lamination tool used in the manufacturing of fibre composite components. Within a closed system it mixes the resin and its hardener in the correct ratio before dosing the mix directly into the fibre weave during the wet lay-up process. 

The operator enters the desired resin content into the system. A programmable microprocessor controls two dosing pumps, which respond to the input of a displacement sensor on the impregnation nozzle. 

The operator moves the nozzle over the fibres in the mould by which resin is pumped into the fibre layer at the desired dispense rate. The use of this system offers a number of benefits which will be of interest to a manufacturer who is using the hand layup method instead of using pre-preg materials: 

Pictures: (Dispenser trim) The dispenser can be taken to the mould as a portable unit or using a system of overhead suspension. (Dispenser nozzle) Resin is pumped directly into the fibre through a spreading nozzle immediately after being mixed in a heating unit. (DSC01087) The dispenser can at any time provide any desired quantity of mixed resin into a cup, a mould or for RTM.

Accurate Control: The resin distribution can be accurately controlled and it is possible to achieve lean resin content with an even distribution.

Quality Management: The dispenser keeps a record of the amount of resin, which has been dispensed into various layers of a lay-up. Such a record plays an important role in the quality management process and assures operator independent repeatability.

Elimination of Exposure: Since the system is closed the operator does not get into contact with harmful unmixed chemicals or their fumes. Even the contact with the mixed resin can easily be avoided.

Proper Penetration: The resin is always freshly mixed just prior to impregnation. This insures that the viscosity is at its lowest, which is advantageous for effective penetration. The use of a heating element on the nozzle can further reduce the resin viscosity for even better penetration. The inclusion of bubbles or voids can be avoided by using the dispenser system.

Process time: The application of resin on large surfaces of fibre is done much faster by means of the dispenser when compared to the hand process. Besides the cost benefit there is also the advantage of reduced exposure.

Reduced Wastage: Since only the required quantity of resin is dispensed into the product the need to squeeze out any expensive surplus resin can be avoided. No waste remains in mixing cups and brushes since these are not necessary for the process.