Introduction
In the dynamic world of molding technologies, Core Molding Technologies stands as a beacon of innovation and quality. As a leading provider of high-quality, large-part, molding solutions, we are committed to molding products using a variety of thermoset and thermoplastic materials. Core has a particular focus on compression molding, specifically with Sheet Molding Compound (SMC), Direct Long Fiber Thermoplastic (DLFT), and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM).
Understanding Compression Molding
Compression molding is a high-pressure molding process where heat and pressure are applied to a material inside a mold. This versatile process is ideal for large parts, high strength requirements, and complex geometries. It offers numerous benefits, including cost-effectiveness, excellent part-to-part repeatability, and the ability to mold large, intricate designs.
Core Molding Technologies and Compression Molding
At Core Molding Technologies, we have harnessed the power of compression molding to deliver superior results for our partners. Our North American footprint and experienced team allow us to handle projects of significant size and complexity. Whether it’s a relatively small, industrial component or a large, robust semi-truck roof assembly, we have the capabilities to deliver high-quality, reliable, and repeatable solutions.
Across our company, we have large compression molding presses, ranging from 450 tons up to 5,500 tons. Prior to becoming an independent company, Core was born out of being a dedicated hood plant for a heavy-duty truck company. We were dedicated to making parts for truck hoods, assembling, and bonding them together.
After becoming independent, Core has grown to feature different materials that allow us to serve a variety of end markets, giving customers a wider portfolio of materials to choose from. Our team is dedicated to matching your project’s performance requirements to the right material choice.
Dive into Sheet Molding Compound (SMC)
Sheet Molding Compound is a ready-to-mold glass-fiber reinforced polyester material primarily used in compression molding. It offers excellent strength, flame resistance, and electrical insulation properties. At Core Molding Technologies, we utilize SMC to create durable, lightweight parts that meet our clients’ exact specifications. Our past projects have demonstrated the versatility and reliability of SMC in various applications.
When we say large parts, Core is mold parts and shipping completed part assemblies to customers daily. Transportation customers may get paint-ready hoods or roof assemblies. Our team understands how to bond multiple parts together to provide a single finished good. This benefits our customers by reducing their supply chain or condensing final assembly time on their production line.
Core is also vertically integrated and uses our in-house USA-made, SMC material. With several different materials, we can focus on what benefits your application is focused on.
Exploring Direct Long Fiber Thermoplastic (DLFT)
Core Molding Technologies, Direct Long-Fiber Thermoplastic press producing a personal watercraft hull.
Direct Long Fiber Thermoplastic is a molding compound that offers excellent strength and impact resistance. It’s ideal for applications that require complex geometry and high performance. At Core Molding Technologies, we leverage DLFT’s unique properties to create parts that can withstand demanding conditions. Our expertise in DLFT has allowed us to deliver solutions that exceed our clients’ expectations.
In your research, you may also come across other similar ways to describe DLFT. Others may use Long Fiber Thermoplastics (LFT), Long Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastics (LFRT), or Long Fiber Thermoplastics-Direct (LFT-D). It does not matter; they are all referencing nearly the same thing.
By nature, thermoplastics are recyclable. If the lifecycle of your product is in your consideration, Core can accommodate up to 100% post-consumer grade material specification to mold your parts.
At Core, our DLFT capabilities are set apart from other molders in a few ways.
- Late introduction of Fiberglass
- Large Tonnage machines, up to 5,000 Tons to mold parts with up to 125 pounds of materials.
- We handle standard compression molded parts and also use molds that feature transfer molding.
Intro to Resin Transfer Molding (RTM)
Core Molding Technologies uses a waterjet to trim a part out created using a thermoset, resin transfer molding process
Resin Transfer Molding is a lower-pressure, closed molding process that uses a resin to impregnate pre-positioned reinforcement fibers within a mold. It’s known for producing high-quality parts with excellent durability and high dimensional accuracy. At Core Molding Technologies, we utilize RTM to create robust, high-performance parts. Our RTM projects showcase our commitment to delivering top-tier solutions for our clients. Often, the RTM parts we produce serve as reinforcements to larger assemblies.
The Future of Compression Molding at Core Molding Technologies
As we look to the future, we’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for compression molding. We’re continually exploring new materials, technologies, and techniques to enhance our capabilities. We also see new industries recognizing the benefits of compression molding. Our commitment to innovation ensures that we’ll remain at the forefront of the molding industry, delivering the best solutions for our clients.
Let’s Talk.
Are you ready to explore the possibilities with Core Molding Technologies? Contact us today to discuss your project needs. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect molding solution. Let’s create something extraordinary together.