Compression Molding Services

The compression molding process is suitable for a wide range of engineered plastics and composites. At Pride Solutions, we specialize in compression molding Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW-PE). We have 50+ years of experience working with UHMW.

Injection molding and compression molding are similar advanced molding processes that are used to create countless plastic products and parts. 

Compression molding uses heat, pressure and time to force thermoset or thermoplastic polymers into the mold cavity to form a part in the shape of the cavity. This process features a precision machined two-part metal tool that is placed in a vertical hydraulic press and heated. Resin, typically in powder form, is poured inside the mold cavity. The tool is then compressed at very high pressure for a set period of time, until it cools and the cured plastic part is removed. The mold operator then inspects the parts and removes resin flash around the edge of the part with a hand tool.

Injection molding is a high-volume and highly repeatable plastic parts manufacturing process that produces a wide variety of thermoplastic and thermoset parts. 

Plastic injection molding involves heating and injecting melted resin into a mold cavity under high pressure until it is full. The mold, which is typically precision machined from steel or aluminum, is then cooled and the finished parts are released. An injection molding machine features a clamp unit and an injection unit. The clamp holds the mold closed while the resin is injected at high pressure by the injection unit. Examples of injected molded plastics include countless household items such as plastic bottles; TV remotes and toys; numerous plastic automotive components such as automotive intake valves, plastic bumpers, and automotive interior components; commercial products such as electronic housings, equipment housings and machine components; and dozens of plastic agricultural parts such as poly pickup bands for hay balers and drainage filter risers.

Pride Solutions offers in-house compression molding and thermoforming services, and has access to quality injection molding services and injection molded plastic parts through our supplier network. 

Compression molding and injection molding both have their place. Compression molding often is used to manufacture larger flat or curved plastic parts that require repeatability and durability, or complicated parts that require features like holes. It is best used for parts that need to be manufactured at high volume because the initial investment in the mold is expensive, but the cost of the parts is low when manufactured in high volume. Whereas, highly complex parts and parts that require mass production such as electronic casings, car parts, and plastic bottles are better suited for injection molding. Many of the household plastic items you use every day were manufactured using these processes.

Examples of Parts Suitable for Compression Molding

• Metal parts that need to be replaced with lighter, but strong and durable plastic parts, such as automotive parts
• Near-net shape plastic parts to custom specification
• Custom plastic parts with features such as holes
• Plastic rods and tubes
• Seals and rings
• UHMW plastic bushings
• UHMW drag conveyor paddles
• Skid Shoes for agricultural equipment
• Electrical housings, handles and switches
• Plastic gears
• Electrical parts
• And much more

This is determined by the ROI of the compression molding tool. Generally, if you require thousands of plastic parts, compression molding would be more suitable. Our sales team will help determine the most effective process for your application.

Compression molding is suitable for high volume runs of plastic parts. If you need prototype plastic parts please reach out to us.

We can often use our customers' existing molds. When we can't, our engineering team will work with you to have new molds made.