Elevate production with superior thermoset plastics.

The power of thermoset plastics: unmatched resilience, strength, and endurance

Pivotal plastics across industries

Thermoset plastics offer manufacturers unparalleled advantages in creating durable, heat-resistant, and dimensionally stable products. For these reasons, they're the preferred choice from automotive and aerospace to construction, medical, military, and agriculture. Our customers have enjoyed the outsourced manufacturing of their thermoset plastic parts by relying on our end-to-end solutions and skilled partners. 

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Industrial grade thermoset plastic pipes - thermoset plastics forming

Why choose thermoset plastics?

  • Enduring strength. Thermoset plastics undergo a curing process, resulting in a robust three-dimensional network of covalent bonds resulting in unparalleled mechanical strength.
  • Heat resistance. Thermoset plastics thrive in high-temperature environments, resisting deformation and maintaining structural integrity.
  • Versatility. Thermoset plastics are adaptable to diverse shapes and sizes, catering to a wide range of applications and requirements.

Thermoset plastics versus thermoplastics

In the diverse world of plastics, there are two primary groups: thermoset and thermoplastic. The crucial distinction lies in the permanence of thermosetting plastic products which remain unyielding after shaping. This differs from thermoplastics, which, following its initial heat-forming, retain the ability to be remelted and reshaped.  Thermosets, however, cannot be remolded after their initial forming, showcasing their enduring strength and quality.

How are thermoset plastics created?

Thermoset plastics are formed through a process where a molten resin, typically composed of monomers or pre-polymers, undergoes a chemical reaction creating crosslinks. Curing agents are added to facilitate this reaction. The resin-curing agent mixture is placed in a mold, heated to trigger curing, forming a rigid polymer with a three-dimensional network of bonds. Once cured, the material is unalterable and retains its shape upon cooling. Various thermosetting resins like epoxy, polyester, and phenolic offer versatility, allowing tailored choices for specific applications across industries.

The following are the two main processes to manufacture thermoset plastics:

  • Resin transfer molding (RTM). In RTM, molten resin is injected into a closed mold containing reinforcing materials (such as fiberglass mat or cloth). It is typically suitable for producing large and complex parts with a smooth finish.
  • Reaction injection molding (RIM). RIM involves the mixing of two liquid components (polyol and isocyanate) under high pressure, leading to a chemical reaction that forms a thermosetting polymer. Ideal for large, lightweight parts with complex geometries, offering high strength-to-weight ratios.

The molding process: transforming ideas into durable thermoset plastics

In the dynamic world of plastic manufacturing, the demand for cutting-edge solutions has never been more pronounced. At NMG, we employ state-of-the-art techniques such as compression molding, transfer molding, and injection molding to bring your concepts into life.

Compression molding

Seamlessly melding durability and precision, compression molding is a technique that involves placing a pre-measured amount of molding material into a mold cavity and then compressing it under immense pressure and heat. The result is impeccable, high-strength thermoset plastic products.

  • Advantages. Intricate designs and complex shapes without compromising structural integrity
  • Materials. Phenolic resins and melamine formaldehyde
  • Applications.
    • Automotive components including brake pads, engine mounts, and electrical insulation parts
    • Electrical insulators including transformers, switchgear, and circuit breakers
    • Aerospace components including interior panels, insulating materials, and structural elements
Thermoset plastic compression molding parts

Transfer molding

Connector created by Thermoset Plastic Transfer Molding

Transfer molding is a technique that combines innovation with efficiency. This process involves placing the molding material into a chamber, where it is then forced into the mold cavity by a plunger or screw mechanism. Transfer molding is a process that boasts cost-effectiveness and enhanced productivity.

  • Advantages. Reduced waste, shorter cycle times, and superior consistency
  • Materials. Silicone rubber
  • Applications.
    • Electronic connectors including small, intricate parts like connectors and insulators
    • Medical devices including catheters, syringe components, and seals
    • Consumer goods including handles, buttons, and intricate parts for appliances

Injection molding

Injection molding is a technique that involves injecting molten thermoset plastic into a meticulously designed mold under high pressure, resulting in intricately detailed products with unparalleled accuracy.

  • Advantages. Large quantities of components with minimal variation, to create lightweight, durable and intricately detailed products.
  • Materials. Liquid silicone rubber (LSR)
  • Applications.
    • Packaging including caps, closures, and containers
    • Automotive interior components including dashboard panels, door trims, and armrests
    • Medical equipment including durable and dimensionally stable housings for medical equipment with complex geometries
Thermoset Plastic Injection Molding Machine

Comparing molding methods

Injection moldingTransfer moldingCompression molding
Material usedThermoplastics (e.g., ABS, PC) and some specialty thermosets (e.g., Liquid Silicone Rubber for LSR)Thermosetting plastics (e.g., phenolic resins, melamine formaldehyde) and elastomers (e.g., silicone rubber)Thermosetting plastics (e.g., phenolic resins, epoxy) and composite materials
ProcessMolten plastic is injected into a mold under high pressure and then cools and solidifiesPre-measured material is placed in a chamber, forced into the mold cavity under pressure, and then curedPre-measured material is placed in an open mold, compressed under pressure, and heated to initiate curing
Curing mechanismNo curingCuring occurs under heat and pressure after material transfer into the mold cavityCuring is initiated by heat and pressure during the compression process
Cycle timeGenerally shorter cycle times compared to transfer and compression moldingModerate cycle times; longer than injection moldingLonger cycle times caused by curing
Suitability for complex partsSuitable for complex and intricate designsModerate complexity; less intricate than injection moldingLimited suitability for intricate designs; better for simpler geometries
Waste generationLow waste generation; excess material can often be recycledModerate waste generation due to material transferModerate waste generation; excess material can be more challenging to recycle
ApplicationsWidely used in various industries, including automotive, consumer goods, and packaging Common in electronics, medical devices, and some consumer goodsCommonly used for automotive components, electrical insulators, and aerospace parts

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