In a joint project, BASF and STR Automotive have brought components for premium vehicles into serial production for the first time using the new material Elastolit R 8819 Lightweight. BASF is a German chemical company and a leading chemical producer in the world. STR Automotive produces exterior car components like bumpers, side stripes and rocker panels.
In comparison to conventional processing with PU-RRIM materials, the new process convinces due to significant weight reduction. The usual component thickness of 3.0 mm can be reduced to less than 2.5 mm, without detrimental effects on processing, quality, or mechanical properties, according to BASF.In a joint project, BASF and STR Automotive have brought components for premium vehicles into serial production for the first time using the new material Elastolit R 8819 Lightweight. BASF is a German chemical company and a leading chemical producer in the world. STR Automotive produces exterior car components like bumpers, side stripes and rocker panels.#
Front and rear bumpers of small car series are usually produced from polyurethane systems with short-fibre reinforcement (PU-RRIM), with a wall thickness of 3.0 mm. Attempts to lower the weight by reducing the component thickness or using a special filler combination and an associated lower material density failed due to insufficient mechanical properties such as mechanical strength, stiffness and impact strength. This process also could not pass the climate change test.
In an intensive exchange between BASF and STR Automotive, a technological solution to the problem has been found, which is based on a high modulus PU basic material with high temperature resistance, stiffness, and very good impact strength.
Depending on the requirements and the application, Elastolit R 8819 Lightweight can be combined with different filler materials: a mineral standard fibre for components like rear bumpers, a mineral/carbon fibre combination for vertical components with low thermal expansion coefficient (for example, side panel) or a combination of carbon fibres and light hollow glass spheres for components for which a particularly high weight reduction is a priority.
“A decisive factor for the successful market launch of this new development was the close cooperation with STR Automotive. With this innovative specialist, we have a partner who supports material development at an early stage in existing components and has brought his expertise from component construction and manufacturing,” Giuseppe Monaco, key account manager in the performance materials department at BASF Italia said.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India
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