Hot press
Hot press occurs at a temperature of 140 – 170 ⁰C and pressure of 50 – 150 kp/cm2 in a steel mould, which is usually chrome plated. A press material called SMC (sheet moulding compound) is used, made up of polyester, fillers, fibreglass, and various additives that are impregnated between the plastic films and delivered in finished rolls. The appropriate amounts are weighed when used. The film is removed and the materials are placed in the mould, which closes. Pressure and temperature distribute the SMC material throughout the entire mould. The production time depends on the items demoulding and is typically between 1 – 8 minutes