Good Quality of SMC Molds Come from Good Die Design

In modern manufacturing, mold is a key production tool, which is widely used in the manufacturing process of various products. In the production of composite products, Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) mold is a special type of mold. SMC is a high-performance composite material composed of resin, glass fiber and fillers. It has the advantages of light weight, high strength and corrosion resistance. It is widely used in automotive, aerospace, construction and other fields. However, in order to produce high-quality SMC products, die design is a crucial link.

Die design refers to the comprehensive consideration of various factors such as reasonable mold structure, material selection, product design and mold processing in the manufacturing process of SMC molds, so that the mold can be realized in the production process efficient and stable production, and guarantee the quality and performance of the final product. High-quality SMC mold design should have the following characteristics.

Reasonable mold structure

Reasonable mold structure is the basis of high-quality SMC molds. The rationality of the mold structure directly affects the molding quality and production efficiency of SMC products. When designing the mold structure, factors such as the fluidity, shrinkage, and shrinkage rate of the SMC material need to be considered to ensure that the SMC material can fully flow in the mold cavity and fill every detail when the mold is closed. At the same time, the mold structure should take into account the shrinkage and deformation of the product to ensure the dimensional accuracy and shape consistency of the final product. In addition, a reasonable cooling system design is also a part that cannot be ignored in the mold structure, which can effectively control the mold temperature, improve production efficiency and prolong the life of the mold.

car-door-trim-mold-design

Release performance of SMC mold

SMC materials usually require a long curing and hardening process in the mold, therefore, the release performance of the product has a direct impact on the life of the mold and production efficiency. Reasonable product design should include proper demoulding slope, demoulding sequence, demoulding force, etc., so that when the mold is demolded, it can be easily separated from the mold without damaging the product or the mold.

smc mold making

Characteristics of SMC materials

Product design also has an important impact on the quality and performance of SMC molds. Product design should fully take into account the characteristics of SMC materials, including its fluidity, shrinkage, molding difficulty, etc. Reasonable product design can reduce the internal stress and deformation of SMC materials during the molding process, thereby ensuring the dimensional accuracy and appearance quality of the final product. In product design, it is necessary to reasonably set parameters such as product wall thickness, line angle, corner radius, etc., so as to obtain good filling effect and finished product quality during mold molding.

mold

suitable material selection

The mold material should have the characteristics of high strength, high hardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance, so as to ensure that the mold will not have problems such as deformation, wear and corrosion during the long-term production process. At the same time, the mold material should also have good thermal conductivity in order to better control the mold temperature and improve production efficiency. In terms of material selection, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as the use environment of the mold, production batch, product requirements, etc., and choose a suitable mold Material.

Structural Strength and Stability

SMC products usually need to have high strength and stability to meet their requirements in practical applications. In product design, it is necessary to fully consider the mechanical properties of SMC materials, and reasonably set the wall thickness, ribs, support structures, etc. of the product to ensure the strength and stability of the final product.

Precision and quality of mold processing

High-precision mold processing can ensure the dimensional accuracy and shape consistency of the mold, thereby ensuring the quality of the final product. In mold processing, it is necessary to pay attention to the dimensional control, surface finish, surface coating, etc. of the mold to ensure the appearance quality and performance of the final product. At the same time, high-quality equipment can also improve the precision of the mold.

compression seat mold
top panel mold

In conclusion, a good quality SMC mold comes from a good die design. Reasonable mold structure, appropriate material selection, full consideration of product design, and high-precision mold processing are all important factors to ensure the quality and performance of SMC molds. In the design and manufacturing process of SMC molds, the above factors need to be considered comprehensively to ensure that the molds can achieve efficient and stable production in the production process, and produce high-quality SMC products to meet the ever-growing market demand.

As a professional mold maker, MDC Mould has a team of experienced engineers using the latest engineering tools and software to help you build high-quality SMC mold. This also enables our tooling engineers to create the best and most cost-effective tooling for your project requirements. We can review your CAD files or part drawings and provide feedback on possible quality issues or areas for improvement to help ensure your product is manufacturable. We support a wide variety of file formats, including major software. MDC Mould can also create a full 3D model of your target part, or we can convert your 2-D drawing into a 3-D solid CAD model. If you have any needs, welcome to contact us.

3d mold

SMC compression moulding

SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) compression moulding is a manufacturing process used to produce composite materials. It involves compressing a pre-prepared mixture of chopped fibers, typically glass or carbon, and a thermosetting resin, such as polyester or epoxy, between two heated moulds to create a finished part.

Why Compression Moulding are Used in the Process for SMC Composites?

The Process of SMC Compression Moulding:

  1. Preparing the SMC: Sheet Molding Compound is typically produced by mixing chopped fibers (such as glass or carbon) with a thermosetting resin, along with other additives such as fillers, pigments, and release agents. The mixture is typically in the form of a sheet or a mat.
  2. Placing the SMC in the mould: The SMC sheet is placed in the mould, which is usually made of steel and consists of two halves that can be opened and closed. The mould is typically coated with a release agent to prevent the SMC from sticking to the mould during the curing process.
  3. Closing the mould: The two halves of the mould are closed, and pressure is applied to compress the SMC sheet. The pressure is typically applied hydraulically and can range from several hundred to several thousand pounds per square inch (psi), depending on the specific material and part requirements.
  4. Heating and curing: The closed mould, with the compressed SMC, is heated to a specific temperature, typically in the range of 120 to 180 degrees Celsius (250 to 356 degrees Fahrenheit), depending on the resin used. The heat causes the thermosetting resin to cure and harden, forming a solid composite part.
  5. Cooling and demoulding: After the curing process is complete, the mould is cooled, and the pressure is released. The mould is then opened, and the finished SMC part is demoulded. The part may require additional trimming, drilling, or other post-processing operations to achieve the desired final shape and finish.
smc moulding

As a professional and world-famous mold manufacturer, MDC Mould specialize in SMC mold, compression mold. The company has a skilled and experienced R&D team, as well as a group of high-quality production workers, committed to providing customers with the best quality mold solutions. If you have any need, please feel free to ask us.

Equipment |CNC precise machines

Last time we introduced Spark Erosion Machine we use in the manufacturing of SMC molds. Today we are gonna to talk about another machine we use to improve the machining accuracy – CNC precise machines.

equitment

equitment

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) precision machine is a type of machine tool that uses computerized control and precision tools to produce high-precision parts. The machine is programmed using a set of instructions that control the movement of cutting tools, achieving high accuracy and repeatability during the manufacturing process.

CNC precision machines are used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical treatment, where accuracy and accuracy are crucial. These machines are capable of machining SMC molds with complex shapes and features while ensuring high-quality surface finish. Some examples of CNC precision machines include CNC lathes, CNC milling machines, and CNC milling machines.

Another advantage of CNC precision machines is that they can operate continuously for long periods of time, making them an ideal choice for mass production. They also have the ability to produce parts with strict tolerances, which helps reduce waste and improve efficiency in the manufacturing process.

insp

In short, as a well-known compression mold manufacturer at home and abroad, if you have any needs, then MDC Mould will be your best choice.

Influence of Different Types of Press Machines on SMC Mold Manufacturing

Do you know the differences among 500T, 1500T or other press machine? This article will tell you.

As a professional compression mold manufacturer, MDC Mould has professional compression machines, including 500T, 1500T&4000T Press machine.

compression-mould-machine
Compression Molding Machines

Sizes and Complexities

First of all, these different types of presses can provide different pressures and extrusion capabilities, providing different options for the manufacture of SMC molds of different sizes and complexities. For example, for smaller molds, 500T presses can be used to complete, while larger molds need to use 1500T , 2000T or 4000T presses.

Manufacturing Cycle and Cost

Secondly, these different types of presses can also affect the manufacturing cycle and cost of SMC molds. Smaller models of presses usually require longer molding cycles, while larger models of presses can complete the manufacture of SMC molds in a shorter time. However, larger models of presses are also relatively expensive and require more investment.

Accuracy and Quality

Finally, these different types of presses can also affect the manufacturing accuracy and quality of SMC molds. Larger models of presses generally provide higher pressure and more precise control, which can produce higher quality, higher precision SMC molds. Smaller models of presses may have some limitations in manufacturing accuracy, which may not be able to meet the requirements for some SMC mold manufacturing that requires high precision.

2000T press

Therefore, when selecting an SMC mold manufacturing press, it is necessary to select the appropriate press model according to the specific production needs and budget in order to achieve the best production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

SMC shower base mould
SMC laundry tank mold

MDC Mould was established in 1997, mainly engaged in the development and production of hot pressing molds such as SMC mold, BMC mold, GMT mold, and fiberglass mold. The company adheres to the quality policy of “customer satisfaction is our eternal pursuit“, and meets customer requirements with high-level technology, scientific management, exquisite products, and thoughtful service, achieving win-win results is our company’s purpose. If you have any needs, we will provide you with the best service.

Maintenance of SMC Mold

The maintenance of SMC molds is an important measure to ensure the normal operation of the mold and prolong its service life.

SMC mold(sheet molding compound) is an important manufacturing tool used to produce various composite material products. However, these molds are subject to the risk of wear and damage during the production process, and attention needs to be paid to their maintenance and maintenance to ensure their long-term use, product quality and production efficiency.

compression molding process

Here are some detailed tips on SMC mold maintenance and maintenance:

1. Clean the surface and interior of the mold regularly: Before and after using the SMC mold, the mold needs to be cleaned. First, use air pressure to remove dust and dirt from the surface of the mold. Then, clean the surface and interior of the mold with a specific cleaning agent. Regular cleaning of molds will ensure they remain in top condition and reduce damage and wear from accumulated dirt and impurities.

2. Keep the mold surface lubricated: Proper lubricant can reduce wear and tear on the mold surface and reduce friction. Lubricant should be applied thinly on the surface of the mold to prevent too much lubricant from entering the mold and affecting product quality.

3. Regularly inspect the surface and interior of the mold: Regularly inspect the surface and interior of the mold for cracks, scratches, wear, or other damage. Finding and repairing these problems in time can avoid more serious damage and prolong the service life of the mold.

4. Keep the mold in a dry environment: SMC molds should be stored in a dry and ventilated environment. An environment with high humidity may cause rust and corrosion on the surface of the mold, affecting the service life of the mold.

5. Avoid overloading the mold: When using SMC molds, it is necessary to avoid overloading. Overloading may cause mold deformation, wear and breakage, causing irreversible damage to the mold.

6. Regular replacement of molds: SMC molds also need to be replaced regularly to ensure product quality and production efficiency. The service life of a mold depends on its material, manufacturing process and usage. Mold replacement should be considered when there is visible damage or wear to the mold surface, or when the product begins to change in size and shape.

insp

In short, the maintenance and maintenance of SMC molds is an important measure to ensure the normal operation of the mold and prolong its service life. Regular cleaning, lubrication and inspection of molds, as well as avoiding overloading, can ensure the normal operation and efficient production of molds. Maintaining and maintaining molds can help companies reduce production costs, improve product quality, and ensure the safety of the manufacturing process.

MDC Mould is a professional mould manufacturer, especially of SMC molds.The molds developed by our company have short (2-4 minutes) cycle time and the use of machined tool steel molds supports a program volume of more than 500,000 units per year. Our company adheres to the concept of professionalism and integrity, and will focus on developing higher-quality, higher-tech molded FRP molds in the future.

SMC mould
SMC Plastic Monument Mark Mold

Our molds not only have high difficulty, long service life and short cycle time, but also have reasonable price, timely delivery and considerate service, which are favored by customers at home and abroad. If you have any needs, welcome to contact us.

the Mold Industry Now in China

In recent years, due to various reasons, the development of the mold industry has faced many difficulties. It is not as easy as before, and the future development prospects are not very clear. At last, many people have to leave the industry.

The first objective reason is the market environment. However, the development of everything is cyclical. The current trough is only temporary. The overall trend of China’s economy will not change. Therefore, the difficulties caused will be gradually eliminated in a short period of time in the future. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about this factor. Moreover, the economic downturn affects not only the mold industry but also the manufacturing industry. Most industries are all affected.

Moreover, the mold industry is the basic industry. Mold is indispensable to industry, just as catering is to people’s livelihood.

In fact, a subjective factor within the industry should account for these difficulties. Attracted by the explosive profits in the mold industry in the early period, different sizes of processing shops, mold factories and consumable stores have sprung up, and the number of mold companies has almost doubled. The industry itself is expanding too fast, and even if the economy is booming, there will be fierce competition. However, unfortunately, it encountered economic downturn, and difficulties arose.

At this time, some companies insist on quality and do not engage in price war, while some companies compress equipment and labor in order to save costs, resulting in a vicious circle, which eventually leads to closure. The closing of a company may have a chain reaction, leading to the crisis of several companies.

MDC Mould was established in 1997, mainly engaged in the development and production of hot-pressing molds such as SMC moldBMC mold, GMT mold, FRP mold, etc. In the future, the company will focus on the development of higher quality and high-tech molded FRP molds. We adhere to the concept of professionalism and integrity, establish long-term and mutually beneficial partnership with customers, and become the pioneer of customer development projects through professional technology and thoughtful services.