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Rubber Compression Moulding
Compression moulding requires a carefully measured amount uncured rubber to be loaded into the bottom section of the preheated moulding tool. The two halves of the tool are brought together, forcing the rubber material to conform to the shape of the tool cavity. The material is compressed and heated over a pre-determined time, during which the material cures (or vulcanises) and solidifies into the desired shape. The two halves of the tool are then opened and the newly created rubber part is removed.
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Transfer Moulding
Transfer moulding involves a process where the rubber material is placed into a transfer pot, which fits tightly with a plunger plate. The material is then transferred through pressure and temperature from the transfer pot through sprues into the mould cavities. The advantages of transfer moulding include: ability to mould precision tolerances; less flash during the moulding process; ability to insert mould or over-mould metal, plastic, fabric, or rubber inserts; and increased tooling lifetime.
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Rubber Injection Moulding
Injection moulding involves a process where the rubber is introduced into the mould through an injection nozzle and then injected into each cavity through a runner system, gates, or transfer sprues. The injection process is semi-automated and requires the least amount of material handling of any of the three rubber moulding processes. The advantages of injection moulding include: tighter tolerances; ability to utilise faster cycle times; and semi-automation to reduce part costing.