SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound)  is a high strength glass reinforced thermoset moulding material which is normally compression moulded. It combines long glass fibre and unsaturated polyester/ phenolic/ Vinyl and Acrylic modified resins to produce a high strength moulding compound. These materials are usually formulated to meet performance requirements of the part to be moulded. CME manufactures these materials at our Bayswater plant in Victoria.

SMC is ideal for large structural components due to its high strength-to-weight ratio. SMC offers additional benefits in part design allowing localised rib reinforcement and bosses for fastening attachments and sub assemblies. Significant tooling investment and overall component cost savings result from part consolidation. With the same coefficient of thermal expansion as Steel and excellent corrosion resistance, SMC is an ideal alternative to Steel and can be used in the same fluctuating temperature environments. The main benefit however is a typical 25% weight reduction achieved at similar strength to Steel.

The heat stability, mechanical and electrical properties of SMC are key attributes to its success in a number of industries including the automotive sector where it is commonly used in painted body panels, lightweight structural panels such as bumpers, valve covers, and engine shields. SMC is also extensively used in the production of electrical enclosures, lighting, solar, shower bases, walls, and sinks.

Compression moulding also offers other advantages to the designer including thin walled, dimensionally stable parts, which can accommodate attachment techniques. Warping and sink free mouldings are possible with our low shrink materials.

Sheet Moulding Compound is an integrated ready-to-mould composition of glass fibre’s, resin and filler. SMC is made by metering a resin paste onto a thin plastic carrier film. The resin is typically thermoset Polyester but alternatives are available such as vinyl, Phenolic and Acrylic modified depending on the ultimate properties required. The compound is made by chopping continuous fibers onto the resin paste as it is conveyed on the film. This glass, resin mix is further covered by another layer of resin on a second carrier film. Compaction rollers knead the fibers into the resin for uniform fiber distribution and wetting. The compound sandwiched between the carrier films is gathered into rolls and stored until it matures.

Upon maturation, SMC is tack free and has a leather like consistency. The carrier film is removed and the sheet is prepared into a charge of predetermined weight and shape. The charge is placed on the bottom of two mould halves in a compression press.