Finite difference computation of the permeability of textile reinforcements with a fast stokes solver and new validation examples

For the simulation of the impregnation process of Resin Transfer Moulding, the permeability of the textile is a key input parameter. Using Darcy's law, the permeability can be derived from a numerical simulation of the fluid flow for a unit cell problem. In this paper we present the results of simulations with a Stokes solver, implemented in the permeability predicting software FlowTex. The results are compared with those of a Navier-Stokes solver and validated using theoretical results for model problems and with experimental data for real textiles.