SMC Technology

Sheet Moulding Compound is a moulding technology that results in a composite material based on a thermosetting resin (e.g. polyesters) with reinforcing fibres (glass, carbon, etc.).

The material is characterized by a high modulus of elasticity and is widely used in, for example, the automotive industry, construction, mechanical engineering and electrical installations.

SMC technology advantages

The technology is most often used for series production ranging from hundreds of pieces per year to tens of thousands of pieces per year.

SMC is a material base for a very wide range of applications

Glass fibre content 25–50%.

SMC enables the moulding of complicated parts in a fast production cycle

The cycle for a large part takes about 5 minutes. Suitable technology for series of 10–100 thousand parts per year.

SMC enables the production of parts with bosses, ribs and inserts

Automation possible

We can automate the whole process, including finishing.

Stability of parts

Parts manufactured using SMC technology are characterized by their high rigidity, dimensional stability when hot and low thermal expansion.

A wide range of finishing options

IMC technology can be used in combination with powder coating for priming, whereby parts can be coloured “en masse” with “A” surface quality.

How is SMC material processed?

Sheet Moulding Compound (SMC) is a composite semi-finished product composed mainly of thermosetting resin (usually polyester) and chopped glass fibres, which is produced in the form of sheets. Parts of a required size can be cut from these sheets, which are then formed into the desired shape at elevated temperatures and pressures in a moulding machine. During compression, a number of polymerization and cross-linking reactions take place.

Parts of a required size can be cut from these sheets, which are then formed into the desired shape at elevated temperatures and pressures in a moulding machine.

SMC and glass fibres

SMC technology allows the use of materials with a fibre content (glass, carbon, etc.) of between 15% and 65%.

The length of the fibres is usually 25 or 50 mm, but it is also possible to produce SMC with fabrics or continuous fibres. Mineral fillers, thermoplastic additives, catalysts, inhibitors, separators, viscosity modifiers and pigments are used to improve the final properties of the product and the moulding process.