What Is SMC?
Sheet Molded Compound (SMC) is a glass fiber reinforced thermoset plastic. The name SMC, as with RIM (Reaction Injection Molding), not only identifies the basic material composition but also describes the production process. Panels are produced by taking a charge or sheet of SMC and compressing it in a heated mold. The pressure and heat cause the material to fill the mold cavity. The mold temperature starts a chemical reaction which transforms the putty-like charge into a hard rigid panel. Panels used on the GM 200 are composed of: • 40% Polyester resins • 20% Chopped glass fibers • 33% Calcium carbonate • 7% Other materials The charge consists of random, chopped glass fibers encased between two equal thin layers of paste. The paste is produced by mixing the resin, calcium carbonate, and other materials. Can Conventional Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Repair Materials Be Used? SMC, though appearing similar, is not conventional FRP. The repair techniques may be similar, but composi
