'Gas-assist' becomes feasible for thermoset BMC molding

摘要

This new 'GET' technology gives injection-molded bulk molding compounds the same benefits of gas-assist injection-molded thermoplastics. Bulk Molding Compounds Inc., 1600 Powis Rd., West Chicago, IL 60185, USA, develops the GET (gas evacuation technique) process after watching its appliance handle business lose ground to injection-molded thermoplastics. With high heat resistance, good rigidity and low cost, injection-molded thermoset BMC had dominated this application for years. Then, injection molders of fiber-reinforced thermoplastics started using gas-assist technologies that use inert gas to form hollow sections in thermoplastic parts, including appliance handles. Gas-assist molding reduces material use by 30 to 40% and cycle times by at least 50%.