Manufacturing process for component having the appearance of natural stone by moulding a composition containing a heat-setting resin and component obtained by means of the process

Process for the production of a component having a natural stone appearance, by moulding a composition containing at least a heat-setting resin and at least a filler, characterised in that a mixture is prepared at least comprising particles of a heat-setting resin, and, in relation to the total composition weight, at most 30% by weight of particle filler chosen from natural fibres, mineral fillers and their mixtures, of maximum particle size measuring between 30 micrometers and 4 mm wherein the mixture is placed in a female mould heated to a temperature between 120.degree. and 160.degree. C.;

• the mixture in the mould is progressively compressed in the mould by means of a hot male core ensuring closure of the female mould, at a pressure sufficient to draw the composition into the whole of the space between the male core and female mould;
• allowing the resin thus used to set while maintaining the temperature, and under pressure sufficient to ensure closure of the mould with the pressure rising to a maximum in the range of 10.sup.8 to 5.times.10.sup.9 pascals;
• and after the mould is opened the component thus obtained is removed.