Neal A Benkofske

US Patent:

20050133946, Jun 23, 2005

Filed:

Feb 15, 2005

Appl. No.:

11/058448

Inventors:

Neal Benkofske - Elk River MN, US
Pat Bell - Andover MN, US
Mike Strantz - Ramsey MN, US
William Hassell - Andover MN, US
Charles VanHeel - Rogers MN, US
Gerald Harms - Elk River MN, US

International Classification:

B29C043/02
B29C043/56

US Classification:

264102000, 264320000

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for molding a plate having highly detailed surface features from a thermosetting resin with a high concentration of a filler such as graphite. The method an apparatus provides for the formation of a preform of casting material and the placement of the material in a cavity mold which is precisely temperature controlled, has vacuum assist operating throughout the molding operation. The molding pressure is rapidly increased to flow the material through the molding cavity prior to the onset of curing and uniquely positioned ejector pins are provided for removal of the molded plate without damage to the detailed surface features.

US Patent:

6854964, Feb 15, 2005

Filed:

Sep 5, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/655134

Inventors:

Neal A. Benkofske - Elk River MN, US
Pat C. Bell - Adover MN, US
Mike R. Strantz - Ramsey MN, US
William H. Hassell - Andover MN, US
Charles J. VanHeel - Rogers MN, US
Gerald R. Harms - Elk River MN, US

Assignee:

Imperial Custom Molding, Inc. - Rogers MN

International Classification:

B29C043/52
B29C043/56

US Classification:

425116, 425125, 425388, 425395, 425407

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for molding a plate having highly detailed surface features from a thermosetting resin with a high concentration of a filler such as graphite. The method an apparatus provides for the formation of a preform of casting material and the placement of the material in a cavity mold which is precisely temperature controlled, has vacuum assist operating throughout the molding operation. The molding pressure is rapidly increased to flow the material through the molding cavity prior to the onset of curing and uniquely positioned ejector pins are provided for removal of the molded plate without damage to the detailed surface features.