The invention provides blower housings for air handlers and hot air
furnaces which are made from molding compounds that allow for wide
flexibility in molding complex configurations so as to improve blower
efficiency, which improve manufacturing efficiency and safety and provide
suitable mechanical properties, safety in use, and sound dampening. These
compounds are generally liquid thermosetting molding resins which
comprise a thermoset resin matrix such as a isophthalate polyester having
a specific loading of glass reinforcing fibers. The compositions also
include flame retardant additives. They are further formulated to meet
the desired molding characteristics; to withstand the operating
temperatures to which they will be exposed; and to have a predetermined
strength and a desirable user interface including appearance, and odor.
Typically, the compounds will have a glass transition temperature from
about 160.degree. C. (320.degree. F.) to about 185.degree. C.
(365.degree. F.).