Large and small-scale organizations involved in molding employ compression molding, due to its flexible manufacturing process, and for creating a wide range of parts, from tiny baby bottle nozzles to massive airplane parts. In the compression molding process, two heated molds are used to compress a measured amount of warmed molding material, also known as a charge, into the required shape. The quality of the product depends on the mold used in the process. Hence creating a perfect mold is the first step of a successful creation of compression molding plastic.

Creation of compression molds for the molding process

Individuals can have multiple choices for making molds, depending on the material or charge they plan to use for compression molding. The important thing to remember is that the molds must be strong enough to endure the compression molding process; therefore, if heat is being used, one must design molds that can resist significant temperature variations. Additionally, molds must be able to tolerate the respective pressure that is applied during compression.

• Die casting

One of the most widely used techniques for making molds for compression molding and other production processes is die casting. Because die casting produces sturdy metal products at a lower cost than other manufacturing techniques, it is still a popular option. It should be mentioned that CNC machining is frequently used to create dies for die casting, and these two manufacturing processes frequently work together.

• CNC 

The best option for more intricate compression molding plastic is CNC machining. Engineers have more design flexibility with CNC machining because of its automated component, although tool creation can be costly. To make more affordable molds, some manufacturers will combine die casting with CNC machining.

• 3D printing

3D printing can also be used to create compression molding tooling. Making molds using 3D printing can be the most affordable and efficient way to prototype tiny parts. With CAD software, it is fast to create multiple versions, reprint them, and test them. The most popular usage of 3D printing is for compression molding plastic meant for applications without heat.

Applications

Numerous uses exist for compression molding. The following are a few examples of the numerous components and items we use that feature compression molded parts:

• Automobile parts: Compression molding is used to create a lot of huge panels and parts for cars, tractors, and other vehicles. Compression molding plastic is an option for many plastic parts used in engine components and car interiors.

• Computer and gaming devices: Compression molding can be used to make keypads, controllers for video games, and other components.

• Kitchenware: Compression molded parts are found in a lot of kitchen equipment, utensils, and tools. Dinnerware, such as bowls, cups, plates, and more, is frequently produced by compression molding, particularly melamine items.

• Electrical components: Electrical sockets, switches, faceplates, and metering devices are frequently made via compression molding.

Compression molding is a common process used in the medical and dentistry industries to design molded plastics and silicone components, such as respirator masks and syringe stoppers.

Reduced pressures mean reduced tooling costs and longer tool life. Most molds don't deform or require replacement for a long time with proper maintenance. To reduce the expenses linked with the extended cycle times of compression molding, producers can utilize a mold featuring numerous cavities to generate numerous components within a single cycle.

Get the perfect mold

Compression molding is the most economical production technique when producing large, simple, generally easy to design molded plastic products. While certain designs may include pockets and curves, deep draws and extremely sharp angles may be challenging to accomplish with compression molding. Get proper guidance from skilled technicians before choosing compression molding for your enterprise.