New low shrinkage glass fiber- polyester composites in sheet form have been developed to compete with steel and die castings in many automotive applications. These new molding materials overcome previous difficulties encountered with glass reinforced polyester resin compounds. A smooth, fiber pattern free surface is obtained “out of mold,” thus eliminating much of the costly sanding and surface preparation previously required in this process. A more automated molding process is also possible using the compression or injection molding process. The compounds are prepared by continuous method in sheet form for ease in production handling and improved mechanical properties. Preparation, manufacture, and cost considerations with typical applications are presented.
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