Abstract: A method and apparatus for molding fiberglass reinforced plastic articles using a new flowable liquid molding compound includes placing a mat of fiberglass reinforcing material in a mold half while the molds are open, rapidly closing the mold halves until they reach a distance of approximately 2" from a fully closed position, injecting the liquid molding compound which has been maintained at a temperature in the range of 75.degree. to 77.degree. F. into the space between the mold halves while the mold halves continue to close at a slower rate of speed, completing the closing of the mold halves after said injection step to compression mold the molding compound into conformity with the mold cavity while trimming excess glass reinforcing material and heating the shaped molding compound to a temperature causing it to set.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a panel, such as an automotive panel, using the resin transfer molding (RTM) process. The method includes the steps of preforming a first mat of glass fibers into a shape approximating one side of the panel and, similarly, preforming a second mat of glass fibers into a shape approximating a second side of the panel. A urethane core is sandwiched in between the preformed mats to thereby form a premolded assembly. This premolded assembly is placed into a mold and a settable resin is injected into the mold to form the panel.