Compression Moulding

 Compression moulding.

This process is suitable for thermosetting plastics. It uses a  split mould formed to the shape of the object to be moulded. The

combination of heat and pressure allows a measured amount of polymer to be shaped. The polymer can be in powder or ‘slug’ form. As the mould

closes, the application of heat triggers the chemical reaction of ‘crosslinking’ and the object sets (curing). The mould is opened and the object

is removed. These mouldings can have a high quality finish requiring only the removal of ‘flash’.

Electrical fittings (plugs and sockets), saucepan and cutlery handles, bottle tops, etc. are formed by compression moulding.