The RTM vertical tail project is one of many structural projects being conducted under the company's Advanced Affordability Initiative (AAI). AAI demonstrates advanced material, designs and manufacturing technologies that will significantly reduce the cost of aircraft components for next-generation combat aircraft.
RTM differs from reaction injection molding (RIM) in the way resin is delivered into a cure mold. With RIM, the resin is usually a two-part system consisting of a catalyst or initiator, and a base resin. The two-part resin is placed into a mixer prior to injection into the cure mold. With RTM, the resin is a one-part system, containing all constituents, injected into the cure mold.