Key Investments Enhance IDI Composites BMC and SMC Manufacturing Process
February 13, 2009
NOBLESVILLE, IN (USA) - IDI Composites International, the premier global formulator and manufacturer of BMC and SMC thermoset molding compounds, announces the completion of several major manufacturing process improvements at its Noblesville, Indiana location to improve productivity and ensure consistency across its manufacturing lines. Once fully tested and documented, the enhancements will also be implemented at the company's facilities in Puerto Rico and China.
IDI Composites' bulk and sheet molding compound processing lines now feature:
o Three stream in-line metering for the sheet molding compound (SMC) line that enables continuous larger volume runs and improves quality and consistency;
o Automated paste dispensing and doctor blade system, also for the SMC line, that ensures even distribution of resin paste across the entire substrate prior to the introduction of fiberglass to the product. The addition of Gamma gauge technology allows improved measuring of thickness of the applied paste for quality control and real-time processing improvements.
o Compaction control system, SMC line, providing improved compaction control pressures to optimize fiberglass wet out, and improved thickness control of the finished product.
o High volume, automated mixing system for the bulk molding compound (BMC) line for more consistent mixing of resins and fillers throughout the run;
o Feeder/bagging system to transfer BMC from a high volume, automated mixing system to an automatic bagging system, the next step in the process;
o Automated extrusion line (BMC line) provides more control and adjustability for precise extruding of compounds;
o Temperature-controlled storage area, SMC line, allowing material to maturate in an optimum environment for better consistency of product, and providing for prolonged storage of material, when necessary, to enhance shelf life.
Additional improvements are planned in the temperature-controlled storage area and QC laboratory.
"Improvements in the way we process product in our manufacturing facility shows the commitment of our entire manufacturing team. Together, we took a hard look at how we do things, and determined how we can do them better," stated Tom Flood, Vice President and General Manager. "We're certain this will result in far superior molding compounds for high-performance end products."
About IDI Composites International: IDI Composites International is the premier global formulator and manufacturer of thermoset molding compounds for custom molders and OEMs. The company provides customized polyester/vinylester-based bulk molding compounds (BMC) and sheet molding compounds (SMC) for the world's most demanding markets, including automotive, electrical, appliance, food service, and energy.
Headquartered in a 200,000 square foot manufacturing facility and research center in Noblesville, IN (USA), IDI has a strong presence in the international thermoset composites market. To support a growing customer base world-wide, the company operates multiple wholly-owned manufacturing facilities in Europe, Asia, and The Americas.
For more information, contact:
Alyssa Knightly, Program Manager
WARD HILL MARKETING, INC.
360 Merrimack Street, Bldg. 5, 3rd Floor
Lawrence, MA 01843
USA
TEL: +1 978-794-5441;
FAX: +1 978-688-8418
E-MAIL: aknightly@wardhillmarketing.com
