High-Flow, Low-Density TPEs For Automotive Debut

Aiming at a variety of automotive applications such as cup holders, air-guide systems, window seals is Kraiburg TPE, Duluth, Ga., which launched at NPE2015 new custom high-flow TPEs. They are said to allow for filling the mold cavity with even pressure, resulting in consistent gloss on the show surface of the part. Compared to other TPEs, TPVs and PVC, the Kraiburg TPE’s are said to typically increase the molder’s profitability because they yield reduced cycle time, reduced scrap, and are easier to process.

           

In addition, the high-flow TPEs are formulated to have less off gassing than competitive grades, which enables the process to run longer without having to have the mold cavity surface cleaned—a major cost advantage. In addition, these grades have very low specific gravity—generally 0.93 g/cc, while commonly used PVC has a typical density of 1.40 g/cc. Using these densities, in a typical design for rear quarter light window, these TPEs have been shown to offer a vehicle weight savings of 0.63 lbs.

 

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