Fiberglass (SMC - Sheet Moulded Compound)
SMC (sheet moulding compound), commonly defined fiberglass, is a thermosetting material made of fiberglass sheets, minerals, pigments and unsaturated polyester resins, recently widespread thanks to its excellent chemical-physical and mechanical characteristics. The production technology consists of hot-shaping in coupled (male-female) steel dies. SMC is pressed at a temperature of about 150° C (302° F) and a pressure of 50-120 kg/cm2 (711-1706 psi). Hot-polymerization allows a perfectly homogeneous product to be obtained at the end of the treatment.
A particular property of SMC is the possibility of changing its components as necessary, in order to obtain specific characteristics according to the application requirements. In particular, by changing orientation and the type of fiberglass it is possible to obtain significant differences in the chemical-physical characteristics of the finished product, and therefore to improve the performance required according to the various applications.
The main advantages obtained by using this material are:
- significant weight/performance ratio with respect to other materials
- high thermal and mechanical resistance
- high dielectric rigidity
- low specific weight
- optimal dimensional stability
- excellent resistance to corrosion of chemicals and atmospheric agents
In addition, the finished product has the following characteristics:
- homogeneous and smooth surface
- pleasant design
- low weight and easy transport
- easy assembly and processing
- low installing cost
- high safety for personnel during handling of parts
- unlimited life and absolute lack of maintenance.
On Alfa Romeo 4C the external "skin" is almost completely in fiberglass.