The present invention relates to methods and apparatus of molding composite parts
by liquid resin infusion. The invention involves the creation of temporary resin
distribution channels on the surface of a preform to aid in the distribution of
resin during infusion. In general, these methods are improvements over the art
because the molds are cheaper to make, the parts produced are of higher quality,
minimal waste is produced and the time to infiltrate the preform is reduced. Hollow
tubes with moveable portions provide Channels which Assist in Resin Transfer Molding
of composites (CARTM).