Precision Vacuum Molding for Rubber, Composite, and Polymer Applications
The Vision Series 30 Ton Hydraulic Vacuum Press is designed for precision molding applications where air entrapment, moisture, and thermal variation can compromise part quality. This compact, self-contained press integrates hydraulic compression, vacuum control, and precise thermal management to support rubber molding, composite laminating, and R&D-scale production with tight tolerances.
French Oil Mill Machinery Company designs and manufactures the Vision Series to deliver repeatable results, intuitive operation, and long-term reliability in both laboratory and light production environments.
Designed for Precision Vacuum Molding
By integrating vacuum directly into the molding environment, the Vision Series press removes trapped air and moisture before and during compression. This improves surface finish, bond integrity, and dimensional consistency across a wide range of materials.
Typical applications include:
- Rubber molding and bonding
- Thermoset composite curing and laminating
- Specialty elastomers and polymer development
- R&D, pilot, and low-volume production programs
Integrated Thermal and Hydraulic Performance
The Vision Series press features electrically heated, water-cooled platens designed for stable and uniform temperature control throughout the molding cycle.
Key thermal and mechanical features include:
- 12 inch by 12 inch heated platens rated for operation up to 600°F
- Cartridge-style heaters for even surface temperature distribution
- Serpentine cooling channels to improve temperature regulation and reduce cycle time
- Self-contained hydraulic system with energy-efficient motor and steel reservoir
- Rapid closing speed up to 65 inches per minute
- Adjustable pressing speed down to 2 inches per minute for delicate molding operations
- Double-acting hydraulic cylinder for consistent force application and reduced component wear
This configuration supports precise control of pressure, speed, and temperature for demanding vacuum compression molding processes.
Smart Controls and Process Visibility
The Vision Series incorporates a microprocessor-based control system with an Allen-Bradley PLC and color touchscreen HMI.
Control system capabilities include:
- Real-time monitoring of pressure, temperature, and cycle time
- Simple configuration of press recipes
- Actual versus setpoint comparison for process verification
- Repeatable cycle execution with reduced operator dependency
These features support process development, quality consistency, and efficient day-to-day operation.
Integrated Vacuum System for Defect Reduction
An integrated vacuum system achieves full vacuum in under five minutes at 29 inches Hg, removing air pockets that can cause voids, surface defects, or weak bond lines.
Vacuum capability is especially valuable for:
- Rubber molding applications sensitive to trapped air
- Composite laminates requiring clean interfaces
- Specialty elastomers and polymers with moisture sensitivity
Optional Cooling and Safety Features
An optional staged cooling package allows controlled temperature reduction using air, mist, or full water cooling based on time or temperature settings. This reduces thermal shock to tooling and improves mold life and part finish.
Standard safety features include:
- Interlocked vacuum chamber doors
- Emergency stop system
- Design aligned with modern shop safety requirements
Built for Long-Term Support
French provides full lifecycle support for the Vision Series press, including:
- On-site installation and operator training
- Maintenance planning and process optimization
- Remote troubleshooting and replacement parts support
With more than a century of press manufacturing experience, French designs equipment intended to deliver decades of reliable service and low total lifecycle cost.