Thermoset molding.
Compression. RTM.
Cured plastics.
Thermoset molding processes. Compression molding, resin transfer molding (RTM), bulk molding compound (BMC). Permanent cross-linked materials.
Key principles.
Pre-form + heat
Pre-formed material in heated mold. Standard for thermoset.
Liquid resin
RTM injects resin into closed mold over fiber preform.
BMC pellets
Bulk molding compound (chopped fiber + resin pellets).
SMC sheets
Sheet molding compound. Pre-impregnated sheet.
Phenolic, epoxy, BMC
Phenolic, epoxy, BMC, SMC. Each per application.
Heat-driven
Heat cures resin permanently. Cannot remelt.
FAQ
Thermoset vs thermoplastic?
Thermoset: cross-links permanently, decomposes if overheated. Thermoplastic: melts and reflows.
Compression molding cycle?
Slower than injection (2-5 min). Cure time-dependent.
When to use thermoset?
High-temperature service, structural composites, electrical insulation requiring permanent stability.
Material examples?
Phenolic: pot handles, electrical. Epoxy: aerospace composites. BMC/SMC: automotive panels.
Cost?
Thermoset tooling similar to thermoplastic. Material costs vary widely (epoxy expensive).
Recyclability?
Limited — grind and use as filler in new resin. Not recyclable like thermoplastic.