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Free Tools Compression Moulding Services in the UK
- Rapid quoting within 2-3 days
- For moulding silicone rubber parts
- Suitable for high- and low-volume production
Start A New Compression Moulding Quote
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Compression Moulding Process
Compression moulding uses heat and pressure to form the product’s final shape. This method employs a heated cavity and vertical press mechanism to effectively construct and maintain the required tooling.
Compression moulding wastes less material than injection moulding, as no runners, sprue, or gates are required to form the part. Consequently, this technique produces an aesthetically and functionally superior surface finish. This makes it the go-to technique for large flat and curved components.
The simplicity of compression moulding machines and low tooling costs make the process an attractive option for functional prototyping and low-volume manufacturing. In addition, compression moulding is the best option for when the part material used is impossible to produce using other moulding techniques and custom composites are fabricated.
Compression Moulding Applications
Electronics
This process is often used to manufacture switches, faceplates and electrical sockets.
Medicine & Dent
Many plastic and silicone parts used in the medical industry, such as respirator masks and syringe stoppers, are compression moulded.
Consumer Goods
Silicone is also used in a wide range range of consumer products, such as cookware, phone cases and bathroom accessories.
Compression Moulding Material Selection
Silicone is a synthetic rubber that is widely used in many industries thanks to its various properties. It is heat-resistant, flexible, and waterproof, making it ideal for use in a wide range of applications.
It is also non-toxic and hypoallergenic, making it safe for use in many products, including those that come into contact with the skin.
You can request any custom material in our Instant Quoting Engine.
Compression Moulding Finishing Options
No secondary polishing or grinding. The part will have tooling marks.
Additional processing and finishes on request.
Why Xometry UK Is The Right Partner for Your Moulding Projects
Large capacities
Xometry UK and its partner network can produce parts and components with high tensile strength and stiffness, as well as other extreme properties. Get your parts from us in just 10–25 days.
No volume too big or small
Compression moulding is suitable for both low and high-volume production and can be used for rapid prototyping. At Xometry UK, we can guide you through each step from prototyping to serial production.
Moulds
CNC machining—something we’re well-known for—is an excellent choice for more detailed compression moulds. These compression moulds are usually made from machined aluminium or steel.
In-house quality control
Strict in-house QC to ensure your parts are flawless. Xometry UK is ISO 9001 certified.
Compression Moulding Fundamentals
Compression moulding is one of the most widely used plastic moulding manufacturing techniques. Like injection moulding, compression moulding is an economical, time-tested solution for plastic fabrication.
It involves putting preheated plastic material, usually referred to as charge, on a heated open mould cavity and compressing it to form the final shape of the product.
- Raw materials include resins in the form of pellets, powder, or preforms. This charge material is usually plastic or composite, and is often preheated and placed into a heated mould cavity.
- The matching half mould or top plug is closed using a hydraulic press.
- This motion creates vertical compression and during this time, the pressure forces the plasticized charge to fill the mould evenly, creating a uniform part structure.
- The mould is kept closed and the high temperature cures the charge material into the final shape and chemistry.
- Once the curing reaction is complete, the upper mould is lifted, and the final product is removed.
Compression moulding wastes less material than injection moulding, as no runners, sprue, or gates are required to form the part. Consequently, this technique produces an aesthetically as well as a functionally superior surface finish. This makes it the go-to technique for large flat and curved components and for low-production volume.
This technique outperforms others when composite materials are used to give extra stiffness, corrosive resistance, durability, and other special material properties.
Compression Moulding Resources
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