Capabilities
Compression Molding
Bruckman Rubber Co. has 28 compression presses with platen sizes ranging from 12” square up to 36” square and the ability to apply pressure up to 550T.
Compression Molding Basics
Compression molding begins with a carefully weighed and shaped piece of uncured rubber. This pre-formed material is strategically placed in each mold cavity to ensure proper formation of the part. The mold is then closed, applying heat and pressure to the material between the plates, forming the desired shape. Once the rubber cures, the part is removed and the next cycle begins.
Advantages
Tooling for compression molding is typically less complex and thus, less costly to construct. Also, there is normally less wasted material in flashing around the part due to precise weighing and shaping of material placed in the mold.
Disadvantages
Cycle times for compression molding are usually longer, making this a less-than-ideal method for high volume jobs. Additionally, more labor is sometimes put into pre-forming material for this type of molding process, adding to costs, as well.