A new preheating system for plastic sheet molding compound (SMC) that uses radio frequency heating technology is now available. This new system is reported to enhance the distribution of reinforcement fibers in the molding process, which enhances product quality and strength, reduces press cure time by 50%, and is especially effective for thicker bosses and structures. Facilitating the movement and distribution of fibers throughout molded parts, improving their strength and surface finish, this RF preheater reduces press cure time. Capable of preheating SMC loads up to 30 by 84 in. in under one min., the Macrowave SMC Preheater has a PLC that controls the heat cycle time, power level and conveyor movement to synchronize with the press operation. — Radio Frequency Co., Millis, Mass.
Sheet Molding Compound Preheater Cuts Cure Time By 50%
| By Chemical Engineering