Manufacturing process for series production
SMC hot pressing (Sheet Moulding Compound)
Our main manufacturing process for series FRP moulded parts (thermosetting plastics) is SMC hot pressing. Thermosetting plastics prepregs are processed using presses with large clamping forces. The largest, with clamping forces of up to 2,000 tonnes, enable the production of FRP moulded parts with dimensions of 2.5 x 3 metres.
The SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) hot pressing process used is suitable for large series. SMCs are pre-assembled material systems which are supplied with all the components. Fibre reinforced plastic, thermosetting plastics moulding compounds (e.g. glass reinforced polyester resins) are normally used. The prefabricated mats (SMC prepregs) are cut to size at the press and laid in the pre-heated steel tool. After the press is closed the FRP moulded parts harden. The plastic components which are smooth on both sides can be produced in a short cycle time. The cycle times can be only minutes, depending on the thickness of the thermosetting FRP moulded parts.
Besides a large technical capacity, our 2 large presses also guarantee security of supply (back-up).
