SMC presses for series production
Sheet Molding Compound
Press systems for SMC compression molding
SIEMPELKAMP develops SMC presses for the compression molding of sheet molding compound (SMC) in series production. The press systems are designed for short cycle times and reproducible component quality – including media connections for tool supply, options for tool change, and integration into complete production lines.
Benefits
- Designed for high production volumes and short cycle times
- Reproducible component quality through controlled process management
- High plant availability thanks to straightforward tool run-in and stable parallel guidance
- Scalable from a single press to a fully integrated production line
- Clear project structure through system delivery including peripheral equipment (one point of contact)
Features
- Press technology for SMC compression molding (thermoset)
- Media connections for tool supply (e.g. temperature control, oil, vacuum)
- Options for tool change (manual to fully automatic), including shuttle concepts
- Support for process-near functions such as IMC (gap control in the tenth-of-a-millimeter range)
- Line integration: handling, loading and unloading stations, cooling, and post-processing
What sets SMC presses from SIEMPELKAMP apart
High cycle performance
SMC presses from SIEMPELKAMP achieve high closing speeds up to just before the end position and then decelerate in a targeted manner when the tool makes contact. This coordinated movement reduces cycle times while also supporting precise process management.
Higher availability
The backlash-free mounting and parallel guidance of the upper tool ensure tool halves run in without tilting. This reduces mechanical loads, extends tool service life, and contributes to high plant availability.
System solution
SIEMPELKAMP supplies complete systems for the SMC press process. These include the integration of peripheral equipment, media connections, and post-processing stations as well as modular concepts for tool change. For flexible applications, we also offer multifunction presses for different process requirements.
For which applications are SMC press processes used?
SMC hot presses are used wherever fiber-reinforced plastic components are produced in high volumes with precise requirements for surface quality and dimensional accuracy. Depending on the requirements, they can also be combined with processes such as PCM pressing (prepreg compression molding). Typical fields of application range from the automotive industry and aircraft components to industrial housings and insulators.
The SMC process at a glance
From press to production line
Shuttle systems can be integrated for material loading and tool change – from manual solutions (sliding table) and single- and double-sided shuttles to fully automatic tool change systems.
Process chain in the SMC hot-pressing process (SMCHP)
