Compression molding is a technique that uses both heat and pressure to shape raw materials like plastic compounds into a mold. This method is highly effective for creating various interior components in the automotive industry, such as sun visors and stick shift gear knobs.
What Plastic is Used for Compression Molding? (5 Key Points Explained)
1. Thermoplastics: The Primary Material
The plastic compounds commonly used in compression molding are typically thermoplastics. These materials can be repeatedly softened by heating and hardened by cooling.
2. Advantages of Thermoplastics
Thermoplastics are ideal for compression molding due to their low moisture absorption and compatibility with standard thermoplastic processing methods.
3. Challenges and Temperature Control
However, thermoplastics have poor fluidity and can easily decompose, releasing corrosive gases. Therefore, the molding temperature must be strictly controlled, usually not exceeding 475 degrees Celsius.
4. Mold Design Considerations
The mold should be heated to between 150 and 200 degrees Celsius. The gating system should be designed to have low resistance to material flow.
5. Product Design and Stress Management
During the compression molding process, it is crucial to design the mold to ease the removal of the final product. This includes avoiding thin walls and minimizing tensile stresses by converting them into compressive stress through appropriate construction.
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