Home » Processes » Compression Molding / SMC

Compression Molding / SMC

Compression molding is the most common choice for high-volume composite parts and is often associated with SMC (sheet molding composite) and BMC (bulk molding composite) materials.

This process produces high strength, complex parts in a wide variety of sizes. Matched metal dies are mounted in a hydraulic molding press. The material charge is manually or robotically placed in the mold, heated mold halves are closed, and up to 2,000psi of pressure is applied. Cycle time ranges from 1-5 minutes depending on part size and thickness. Features such as ribs, bosses and inserts can be molded in.

Compression molded parts are characterized by net size and shape, two excellent finished surfaces and outstanding part-to-part repeatability. Trimming and finishing costs are minimal.

  • In-mold coatings are available to improve surface paintability, eliminating the need for primer.
  • Color compounds can be customized.
  • Male and female tools are commonly made from tool-grade steel. Where pressure is <400psi, other tooling materials can be used.
  • Tools are generally capable of running temps of 300˚F and pressures about 1000psi, depending on contour.
  • Tools generally run 60,000 parts before restorative shear work is needed*.

SMC Material Formulation

In addition to fabrication, MFG develops and manufacturers SMC material, offering more than 100 proprietary material formulations. Our off-the-shelf SMC can eliminate or reduce development time, translating to cost savings. In other cases, a custom formula may provide the greater cost-savings though weight reduction, shorter cycle time or design efficiency. Either way – our dedicated SMC laboratory is ready to support you. (see video for more info)

* Volume recommendations are averages and provided only as a general guideline. Actual volume efficiencies are a more complex matter requiring detailed statistics about the part to be manufactured.

Videos

  • Compression Molding Capabilities for FRP Composite Custom Applications

    Compression Molding Capabilities for FRP Composite Custom Applications

    Short video that describes and demonstrates MFG's volume compression molding capabilities. Includes presses from 100 to 3000 tons for SMC, LCM and carbon fiber.

  • Innovation in Sheet Mold Compound

    Innovation in Sheet Mold Compound

    Behind the scenes of iCom, part of North America's largest independent composing molding company. iCom was created as part of the company's commitment to advancing the standards of technical excellence in sheet molded composite and liquid composite molding formulation and manufacturing.

Resources

×