What is compression moulding?

Compression moulding is a high-volume, high-pressure plastic moulding method that is suitable for moulding complex, high-strength objects. And with its short cycle time and high production rate, many organizations in the automotive industry have chosen compression moulding to produce parts.

Specifically designed to facilitate the replacement of metal components with polymers (and other composites), the compression moulding process is a method of moulding in which a preheated polymer is placed into an open, heated mould cavity. The mould is closed with a top plug and pressure is applied to force the material to contact all areas of the mould. Throughout the process heat and pressure are maintained until the polymer has cured.

While the compression moulding process can be employed with both thermosets or thermoplastics, today most applications use thermoset polymers. Advanced composite thermoplastics can also be compression moulded with unidirectional tapes, woven fabrics, randomly orientated fiber mat or chopped strand.

When we use the compression moulding method, we must consider the following 7 factors:
· The first is the material, the choice of material is very important.The technique is often used for moulding of glass fiber reinforced parts and high pressure is often used. Wear resistance, strength and hardness are required from the mould material.
· the second is shape, the choice of shape is crucial for the subsequent production
· the third is stress
· the fourth is temperature
· the fifth is partial thickness
· last is cycle time

There are several advantages with compression moulding:
. No waste of plastic material (no gate or runner system)
. Minimum of internal stresses in the part
. Process can be used for very heavy parts
. Less expensive equipment

MDC’s main business is China compression mould manufacture. We feel that Though objects can be made in a variety of ways, many manufacturers choose compression moulding due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Compression moulding is one of the least expensive ways to mass-produce products. Furthermore, the method is highly efficient, leaving little material or energy to waste.