Ronald Lee Bell

US Patent:

39575560, May 18, 1976

Filed:

Jul 22, 1974

Appl. No.:

5/490596

Inventors:

Edward L. Wilson - Newark OH
John J. McCluskey - Granville OH
Ronald Z. Bell - Huntsville AL
Richard T. Linak - Jackson TN
Gordon P. Armstrong - Newark OH

Assignee:

Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corporation - Toledo OH

International Classification:

B32B 3106

US Classification:

156 87

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for producing a sheet molding composite are provided. The sheet molding composite consists of two outer sheets of plastic material between which is sandwiched a moldable material or compound containing fiber-reinforced resin. The resin-containing material is maintained in a deformable, flexible state until it is placed in a mold and subjected to heat, at which time it is cured in the shape of the final molded product. The molding composite is made by depositing a layer of a pre-blended resin-containing material on the upper surface of one of the sheets of plastic material and by then depositing a layer of randomly disposed glass fibers onto this first layer. A second layer of preblended resin-containing material from the same source is also deposited on an upper surface of a second of the plastic sheets. The latter sheet is then turned over and moved into parallel relationship with respect to the first sheet and with the second layer of resin-containing material moved into contact with the reinforcing fibers on the first layer of resin-containing material. The composite is then kneaded to thoroughly mix the fibers and resin-containing material and at least one of the plastic sheets and material therebelow is punctured by needles to remove air through the resulting passages.