SMC & BMC

We perfect the chemistry. You perfect the process.
About SMC & BMC

At IDI, we manufacture Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) and Bulk Molding Compound (BMC), two highly engineered thermoset composite materials that deliver strength, durability, and design flexibility across a wide range of industries.

SMC & BMC are mixtures of polymer resin, inert fillers, fiber reinforcement, catalysts, pigments & stabilizers, release agents, and thickeners. While SMC and BMC share similar underlying chemistries, each is uniquely processed and optimized to meet different manufacturing methods, performance requirements, and end-use applications.

SMC and BMC are sold by IDI in an uncured state. This means that they are ready to be formed into finished parts through the application of heat and pressure.

A picture of a SMC machine where red SMC paste is being administered onto a yellow nylon film. This picture is showing how you manufacture different types of SMC.
How it's made

Sheet Molding Compound (SMC)

SMC is made through a continuous, controlled process that combines resin and filler with a glass reinforcement. The paste is spread uniformly onto a bottom film and chopped glass fibers are randomly deposited onto the paste. A second paste is introduced to the top of the glass chop where a second film is also introduced to sandwich the two paste sides with the glass fiber. There is pressure applied to get the sheet to a predetermined thickness. The material then goes to a maturation room for a period of time to reach optimal viscosity. 

Picture of a person working on a 4000 ton industrial press.

Where performance meets possibility.

Whether you're engineering a Class A automotive component, designing products for a new residential or commercial build, specifying high-strength materials for infrastructure applications, or developing electrical components that demand exceptional insulation and performance, SMC delivers.

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Why choose SMC?

SMC’s unique combination of strength, lightweight performance, design flexibility, and customizable formulations makes it the material of choice across a wide range of industries. No matter the application, SMC is engineered to help manufacturers achieve better performance, greater efficiency, and lasting durability.

  • Easily molded into complex geometries
  • Excellent mechanical properties
  • Electrical insulation
  • Superior surface appearance
  • High strength
A BMC Mixer on a manufacturing floor.
How it's made

Bulk Molding Compound (BMC)

BMC is made through a batch mixing process that combines resin and filler with a glass reinforcement. Bulk Molding Compound (BMC) is highly filled and reinforced with short fibers. Glass reinforcement represents between 10% and 30%, with glass length typically between 1/32-inch and 1/2-inch. The end result is a dough-like compound.

A machine on a manufacturing floor that is used to injection mold parts.

Powering precision across industries.

BMC is the material of choice whether you're manufacturing intricate electrical components, high-volume industrial parts, durable consumer products, or precision-molded components that demand exceptional dimensional stability and electrical performance.

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Why choose BMC?

BMC is a reliable material that provides excellent electrical insulation, heat resistance, and mechanical strength. This makes BMC the material of choice for manufacturers seeking reliable performance and efficient production.

  • Superior flame & track resistance
  • Electrical insulation properties
  • Corrosion & stain resistance
  • Color stability
  • Low shrink

Resources

All Technical Resources

Ready to engineer with IDI?

Contact us to speak with a SMC or BMC formulation specialist, request data sheets, or start your own custom compound project.

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