A Spectrum of Molding Processes to Meet Your Design and Cost Targets
Finding the optimum process to satisfy your design and cost targets is where MFG comes on strong in delivering value.
As a composites specialist, we have the know-how and molding technologies to meet most targets. This enables us to guide you to the most efficient manufacturing approach and provide seamless transition through your project’s different lifecycle stages.
Here’s what we need to know to help you:
- Production volume over time
- Product size/shape/surface finish
- Mechanical properties
- Cost target
If you are undecided which process is best for your application, the Fast Facts Chart below can steer you in the right direction.
Fast Facts on Molding Processes
| Mold Type | Process | Mold Cost | Mold Life | Typical Annual Volume | Typical Cycle Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic | Open Molding (Hand Lay-up & Spray-up) | 10 | 1,000 | 500-2,500 | 4–8 hours |
| Vacuum Infusion Processing (Also called VIP, RTM Light, LRTM, Resin Infusion, VARTM, SCRIMP) | 11 | 2,000 | 500 | 4-8 hours | |
| Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) | 15 | 1,000 | 5k | 1-3 hours | |
| Metal Matched Die | SMC and BMC | 100 | 250,000 | 10k-75k | 2-6 minutes |
| LCM Process with Preform Reinforcement: MFG PRIME™ | 100 | 250,000 | 10k-75k | 2-6 minutes | |
| Direct Long Fiber Thermoplastic Molding (D-LFT) | 10 | 250,000 | 10k-75k | 2-6 minutes | |
| Other | Thermoset DCPD RIM (Reaction Injection Molding), Reinforced Reaction Injection Molding (RRIM), Structural Reaction Injection Molding (SRIM) | 40 | 100,000 | 2.5k-15k | 2-12 minutes |
Resources
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Mass Reduction with Value-Engineered Composites
Guidance for light-weighting (mass reduction) of products using advanced composite materials.
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Technical Design Guide for FRP Composite Products and Parts
Fiber glass (FRP) composite materials and processes are explained in detail. This design guide outlines various selection criteria with helpful technical data and comparisons to alternative materials.
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Guide for Selecting Best FRP Composite Process
Guidelines for Selecting the Best FRP Composite Process for Your Project