ABSTRACT
This chapter classifies molding processes for reinforced plastics under open mold, matched-die, Sheet Molding Compounds (SMC), Bulk Molding Compounds (BMC), compression, transfer, injection, reaction injection, press, autoclave, and pultrusion processes. For large moldings and for high production rate smaller moldings, it is convenient to add the cure promoters to the resin just before injection. The injection molding process is capable of producing intricate parts, from a few grams weight to over 100 kg to very accurately controlled dimensions. In principle, compression molding is similar to the SMC process except that it is usually applied to resins such as phenolics, which require much higher consolidation pressures. Transfer molding is a variant of compression molding and is applicable to similar materials although the flow requirement of the resin is more critical.
