Process
Transfer moulding (TM)
Transfer moulding (TM) combines elements of compression moulding and injection moulding. Ideal for complex component geometries with precise, uniform mould filling.
Also known as
Transfer moulding
Combines
Compression moulding + injection moulding
Moulding accuracy
high
Series
medium to large
Overview
What is transfer moulding?
Transfer moulding (TM) is a manufacturing technique for rubber moulded parts that combines elements of compression moulding and injection moulding. The unvulcanised rubber compound is placed in an antechamber (transfer chamber) and injected under pressure into the heated mould, where it is distributed evenly and vulcanised under heat.
This process is particularly suitable for complex component geometries and ensures more precise and continuous mould filling than classic compression moulding.
We manufacture moulded articles for drinking water applications from EPDM compounds with KTW-BWGL certificate or conformity. Which approvals apply to your application is explained under drinking water.
Process sequence
The transfer moulding process sequence
- 01
Loading the raw material
The unvulcanised rubber compound is placed in the transfer chamber.
- 02
Closing the mould
The mould is closed under a defined clamping pressure.
- 03
Injecting the material
A piston or plunger presses the material through channels into the mould.
- 04
Vulcanisation
The material vulcanises at a temperature and cycle time adapted to the respective compound.
- 05
Demoulding
After curing, the moulded part is removed and post-processed if necessary.
Advantages
Advantages of transfer moulding
- High dimensional accuracy and fine detailing possible
- Better material distribution than with compression moulding
- Suitable for complex shapes with inserts
- Fewer air pockets
- Cost-efficient for medium and large series
- Less post-processing thanks to more precise mould filling
Materials
Suitable materials
EPDM
Excellent resistance to weathering and ozone.
FKM (Viton)
Chemical resistance and high thermal stability.
NBR
Resistance to oil and fuel.
Silicone (VMQ)
High temperature resistance and suitable for medical applications.
HNBR
Resistance to ozone and high temperatures.
Applications
Areas of application
- Automotive industry
- Precision seals, sealing components for engines and gearboxes with complex geometries.
- Electrical industry
- Insulators, connectors and housings for electrical components.
- Medical technology
- High-precision rubber parts for sterile applications, silicone seals and biocompatible moulded parts.
- Mechanical engineering
- Vibration dampers, moulded seals and high-precision components for mechanical systems.
Process comparison
Transfer moulding vs. compression moulding
| Criterion | Transfer moulding (TM) | Compression moulding (CM) |
|---|---|---|
| Moulding accuracy | Higher | Lower |
| Component complexity | Suitable for complex shapes | Limited |
| Material distribution | Very uniform | Can be uneven |
| Post-processing | Minimal | Usually required |
| Costs | Higher than compression moulding | More cost-effective |
Optimisation
Optimisation options in transfer moulding
Material flow analysis
Computer-aided simulations help to optimise material flow and avoid air pockets.
Tool optimisation
High-precision tools with smaller sprues reduce waste and improve quality.
Automation & sensors
IoT sensors and automated processes increase process stability.
Transfer moulding is an efficient technique for producing complex rubber moulded parts with high precision. It offers better mould filling and dimensional stability than classic compression moulding, making it a preferred method in the automotive, mechanical engineering and medical technology industries.
Optimised tooling techniques, material flow analyses and modern automation solutions allow production quality to be increased further. This keeps transfer moulding a future-proof solution for producing demanding elastomer seals.
Working together
Need a complex moulded part made by transfer moulding?
Tell us the geometry, material, standard and quantity. We will recommend the right process and the right design.