Compression Molding
Compression Molding Produces a Greater Strength-to-Weight Ratio Over Steel
Compression molding uses sheet molding compound (SMC), bulk molding compound (BMC), or carbon fiber in a thermoset process to produce a greater strength-to-weight ratio over steel and aluminum parts. Compression molding is used for high volume production, is capable of detailed/complex shapes, and eliminates the need to use secondary parts in the assembly process (while still maintaining Class A surface finishes). On the other hand, open molding (hand lay-up/spray-up molding) is a cost-effective solution for lower volume/larger structural parts. MasterMold offers a wide range of composites that can be used in a variety of applications, such as engine component pieces, electrical enclosures, and exterior body panels.
Large Capacity Molding Press
Here’s what you’ll find inside our compression molding facilities:
- Over 30 compression presses
- Tonnages from 150 to 4,000 tons
- Extremely large bed sizes for producing extremely large parts
- Multiple robotic and machining cells for secondary process
What is SMC?
Sheet molding compound is a “mold ready,” glass-reinforced polymeric material – primarily used in compression molding (ideal for automotive body panels, institutional seating and various other structural components). SMC delivers superior strength-to-weight with a Class A surface.
What is carbon fiber?
Carbon fiber has several advantages including high stiffness, high tensile strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high-temperature tolerance and low thermal expansion. These properties have made carbon fiber very popular in aerospace, civil engineering, military, medical, and automotive applications where high strength and light weight is key.
What is BMC?
Bulk molding compounds offer great flow properties. Shorter glass fibers lessen the structure reinforcement, which creates a putty-like injection molding compound (perfect for precision, high-performance applications). BMC is also dielectric, flame resistant and corrosion resistant.
Compression molding uses sheet molding compound (SMC), bulk molding compound (BMC), or carbon fiber in a thermoset process to produce greater a strength-to-weight ratio over steel and aluminum parts.
Are you looking for high volume production for complex shapes, while eliminating the need to use secondary parts in the assembly process?
Give your product an advantage in the marketplace by working with our design professionals to make parts stronger, faster, less expensive, and better looking. Contact us by either filling out the online contact form or calling our headquarters in Johnson Creek, WI: (920) 699-2711.