RE: Anyone using VARTM?
Mel, I'll give that a try...maybe later today.
Chuck, I'm trying to get an understanding of the layup dimensions...about 72" x 30"? If this is the case then you need to flow through 30" or use multiple resin distribution lines and suction lines. If the decreased vacuum = longer flow distances theory holds true, then you may be able to flow 30" with an ultra-low viscosity resin. Or you may be able to put one resin distribution line right in the middle so that you'd only have to flow 15". Depends...
Optimum viscosity? IMO, 1 cps...the viscosity of water. The thinnest system I've seen is around 140...which I may be trying next. The stuff I'm using now works well at 280cps but 140cps would be even better. I can't think of a reason why you wouldn't want the thinnest matrix you could find. Debulking the resin becomes a much quicker chore, flow rates are increased, microscopic bubbling of surface layers would be reduced if not eliminated, the list goes on and on...
-Tom