PLASTICS ENGINEERING COMPANY SHEBOYGAN, WISCONSIN 53082-0758 U.S.A.

3518 LAKESHORE ROAD POST OFFICE BOX 758 PHONE 920-458-2121 FAX 920-458-1923

Compression Molding Guidelines for Preheat Molding of

PLENCO Melamine-Phenolic Molding Compound

Parameter	Suggested Press Settings
Mold Temperatures	150° - 177°C (300° - 350°F)
Preheated Material Temperature	104° - 115°C (220° - 240°F)
Mold Close Time	3 - 8 Seconds
Clamp Tonnage	27.6 - 41.4 MPa (2 - 3 Tons/in^2) Of Projected Part Area

Additional Technical Information

• A clean, highly polished, chrome plated mold is recommended. Use a mold release such as Carnauba Wax, being careful to coat the entire surface. After several shots wipe off the excessive mold release using a clean, soft cloth.

Common Molding Problems	Potential Solutions
Blistering	Increase mold temperature Increase material temperature Increase cure time
Gas Burns	Slow mold close time Check for blocked vent(s) Lower material temperature
Short Parts	Increase preform weight Lower mold temperature Lower material temperature
Sticking Parts	Increase mold temperature Increase cure time

The listed parameters are suggested for use as a guide when setting up a compression molding machine for molding Plenco Thermoset materials. These parameters are for your evaluation and may or may not be compatible for all mold designs, press configurations, and material rheology. Please feel free to call Plenco and a Plenco Technical Service Representative will be happy to assist you.
Revised 10-9-01