Light Resin Transfer Molding

At Viking and Valhalla, every part of the boat matters. From the largest hull to the smallest hatch lid, we bring the same dedication to craftsmanship that defines our brands. The team at Viking Mullica builds hatches, lids and doors for Valhallas from 28 to 46 feet using Light Resin Transfer Molding (LRTM).

Above: Dennis Garcia (red shirt), Foreman of Small Parts/LRTM, and technician Jose Guzman prepare molds of a V-33 for resin injection. Vacuum pressure ensures precise fiber saturation and uniform part quality.

How it works: Two molds are prepared with gelcoat and mold release. Dry fiberglass and core materials are carefully positioned inside, and then the molds are sealed and placed under vacuum pressure. Resin is injected at low pressure to saturate the fibers thoroughly.

While the resin is pumped into the mold through the inlet tube (left tube), a vacuum pulls air out of the mold cavity, helping prevent air pockets and ensuring full saturation. The middle tube serves as the resin outlet, with the vacuum assisting resin flow through the fibers and allowing excess resin to be drawn out. The tube on the right is the “vacuum clamp” that locks the A and B sides of the mold together. Above: Dennis (who has been with Viking/Valhalla for 23 years) checks the ports during the LRTM process.

The molds stay sealed overnight under vacuum until the resin cures, allowing the part to cool and achieve the best possible cosmetics. When separated, the finished part shows a smooth gelcoat finish on both sides – strong, light and built to last.

Caption: From left: William Fabian (Supervisor of the Fiberglass Department, known internally as Viglass), Jose Guzman, Jose Tespán, Sandra Vargas and Dennis. Their teamwork drives the precision of Viking’s Light Resin Transfer Molding process. “There’s no room for error,” says William, who started at Viking in 1998. “You must be perfect every step of the way. This team is highly skilled and very experienced.”

Above: Jose uses a composite tap hammer to gently tap the LRTM part, verifying its structural integrity. This non-destructive test helps confirm uniform bonding and the absence of voids, ensuring the part meets Viking’s high-quality standards.

An aft live well lid showcases the clean finish and durability of LRTM – parts designed to perform in demanding marine conditions.

Above: A flip-down console door produced through LRTM protects tackle storage with strength and precision fit. Below: The flawless finish of a cooler lid’s underside.

Experience Valhalla for yourself: Visit us at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (Oct. 29-Nov.2) to tour the fleet.

VALHALLA BOATWORKS | VALHALLABOATWORKS.COM