Due to the intrinsic limitations of metals as well as sky rocketing costs, many design engineers utilize thermoset composites as a metal replacement material for high-performance applications. Thermoset composites provide more strength, dimensional stability, and corrosion resistance than metals, while increasing design flexibility and manufacturing efficiency. In addition, thermoset composites, such as bulk molding compound (BMC) and sheet molding compound (SMC), offer the following benefits over traditional metals:
- Substantial cost savings
- Significant parts consolidation
- Light weight
- UV resistance
- High impact strength
- Superior electrical insulation
- Molded-in color
IDI Composites, the foremost manufacturer of SMC and BMC materials, is also the global leader in helping companies improve product design, manufacturability, and performance by switching to thermoset molding compounds. IDI has successfully converted many cast aluminum, zinc, iron, steel fabrication, and other custom metal fabrication parts to thermoset composite materials, providing its customers with substantial cost savings and superior performance.
Examples of conversions to thermoset molding compounds:
- Heavy truck under-the-hood components, including valve covers
- Heavy truck body panels
- Automotive headlamps
- Deli meat slicers
- Wastewater station components, such as lids and flanges
- Construction door skins
IDI's Metals Conversion Project Support Team is dedicated to helping molders and OEMs identify new and existing applications that will gain performance advantages and higher manufacturing efficiency from the conversion from traditional metals to high-performance thermoset compounds. Click here to contact one of our Metal Conversion Support Team members.
