Hapco manufactures several products for making composite tools used in a variety of processes, such as; RIM molding, thermoplastic injection molding, resin transfer molding, and vacuum/pressure forming. Typically, for low-volume applications, composite molds are more economical and faster to build versus aluminum or steel tools.
Composites are epoxy-based formulations that include fillers, such as, aluminum and steel and can withstand service temperatures > 300 degrees Fahrenheit. These materials produce exact surface detail and provide exceptional wear resistance. These are high-performance materials that have superior strength and excellent thermal conductivity.
In addition to composite tooling materials, Hapco has several elastomeric formulations that are widely used in the foundry industry for making patterns, core boxes, blow tube liners and fixtures. Hapflex™ materials provide the durability and wear resistance needed to withstand the rigors of such an aggressive mold-making process. Sand casting involves compacting a sand mixture under high pressure around a master “pattern” to form a mold cavity. Molten metal is then poured into the sand mold to cast a part. During the part removal process the mold is generally destroyed, however, the pattern can be reused to make hundreds of molds. Hapflex™ 565 (Shore 65 A) and Hapflex™ 665 (Shore 65-D) are used widely for these applications.
