Contrast compression, injection, and transfer molding techniques that are used to form plastic materials.

Question: Compare and contrast compression molding, injection molding, and transfer molding in terms of process, advantages, and disadvantages. Answer: Compression molding is a process where preheated plastic is placed in an open, heated mold, closed, and pressure is applied to form the material into the desired shape. Injection molding involves forcing molten plastic into a mold cavity under high pressure. Transfer molding transfers preheated plastic from a reservoir to a heated mold cavity through a gate system. Advantages of compression molding include low tooling cost and being suitable for large parts, but it has longer cycle times and limited design flexibility. Injection molding has high production rates and high accuracy, but higher tooling costs and is unsuitable for very large parts. Transfer molding allows for inserts and works with thermosetting plastics but has slower production rates and less efficient material usage. Each technique's suitability depends on the desired application, material, and part dimensions.