Internal Mould Release Agents
Internal mould release agents (IMRs) offer significant advantages in composite manufacturing by being incorporated directly into the resin or gelcoat, eliminating the need for external application to the mould surface. This streamlines production, reduces labour, downtime between cycles, and ensures consistent release performance throughout the moulding process.
IMRs help prevent build-up on mould surfaces, extending tool life and maintaining surface quality. They are especially useful in complex or enclosed mould shapes where applying external release agents may be challenging, ultimately improving efficiency and reducing waste.
Choosing the correct release
Choosing the correct internal release agent depends on several key factors, including the type of resin system, moulding temperature, resin viscosity, and the presence of fillers or additives. Different chemistries interact uniquely with polyester, epoxy, vinyl ester, phenolic or polyurethane resins, so compatibility is essential to ensure effective release without compromising the final part.
High moulding temperatures may require thermally stable agents, while high-viscosity or heavily filled systems may need specially formulated IMRs to maintain dispersion and performance. Selecting the right IMR ensures reliable release, optimal surface finish, and minimal impact on cure or mechanical properties.
To enable us to choose the correct Internal Release Agent for your process please fill in the below form.
From the information provided we can recommend the best suited release agent for your process and offer a sample for testing.