Compression Molding
|
What is Compression Molding?
Compression molding is a developed process in which the molding material is placed in an open, heated mold cavity. The mold is typically made from machined steel which allows for a long service life. The mold is then closed with extreme pressure to force the fiber and resin compound into contact with all areas of the mold cavity. Pressure and heat are maintained until the molding material has cured. The process employs thermosetting resins with short or long chopped fibers for high-strength fiber reinforcements which equates to additional part strength. A distinct advantage of compression molding is its ability to mold tiny to giant, complex parts with features, such as holes, that would otherwise require post-machining with other processes. |
|
Advantages of Compression Molding
|
|
|
Industry Applications
|
Compression Molding
|
Superior to Metal Parts
|
Compression Molding Offers Many Benefits
Compression Molding and Part Complexity:
Compression molding allows for very long fibers, to the tune of one inch or more, to be integrated into complex shapes. Longer and additional fibers provide a much stronger and stiffer material than the shorter/fewer fibers integrated within injection molded components or products.
Compression Molded Parts Replacing Metal:
With the ability to mold very complex parts, we are able to manufacture parts designed for metal and more easily adapt them to compression molded parts without having to change much geometrically. This simply isn't possible with traditionally laminated composite methods without requiring extensive post fabrication machining.
Low Cost Parts:
Compression molded parts are often cheaper than expected. It is not uncommon for certain composites to produce a finished and complex part in under 20 minutes. Low material scrap, reduced labor, high part yields, and less part inspections all factor into your total cost savings.
Compression molding allows for very long fibers, to the tune of one inch or more, to be integrated into complex shapes. Longer and additional fibers provide a much stronger and stiffer material than the shorter/fewer fibers integrated within injection molded components or products.
Compression Molded Parts Replacing Metal:
With the ability to mold very complex parts, we are able to manufacture parts designed for metal and more easily adapt them to compression molded parts without having to change much geometrically. This simply isn't possible with traditionally laminated composite methods without requiring extensive post fabrication machining.
Low Cost Parts:
Compression molded parts are often cheaper than expected. It is not uncommon for certain composites to produce a finished and complex part in under 20 minutes. Low material scrap, reduced labor, high part yields, and less part inspections all factor into your total cost savings.