The Advantages and Disadvantages of Compression Moulding

Last Updated on April 22, 2022 by Leizi

What is compression moulding?

Compression moulding is a traditional technique, which can date back to the 1850s. The working principle of compression moulding is applying the custom molds to heat and compress the thermoplastics and rubbers until they are deformed as you expected. Compression moulding can bring the drawings into the actual products with high repeatability. That’s why it is so popular in lots of industries. The common applications of compression moulding are seals, boots, game handles, etc. At the same time, you also need to pay attention to some disadvantages if you decide to apply them to your project.

The advantages of compression moulding?

(1). Less tooling cost. Compared to other methods of processing, the process of compression moulding is comparatively easier. The operationist can learn to carry out the program easier. Its mold making has not many high requirements on the material. We can make the molds with the materials at a lower cost like aluminum and steel.

(2). Making plastic components of big sizes. Compression moulding can create the components by heat and compression without the limitation of weight.

(3). Low and medium production. Compression moulding is an economical method of processing to create prototypes before manufacturing. Because it has lower tooling cost and machine set-up.

The disadvantages of compression moulding?

(1) . Low Recycle rate. The injection molding parts can be molten repeatably while the compression molding components can’t be recycled.

(2) . Longer time of solidifying the materials. The plastics which are of poor thermal conductivity need a longer time to cure in the mold.

(3) . Suitable for creating plastic components of simple design.