Through material development, engineering analysis, and physical-parts testing, several engineered polyolefin materials have been shown to be able to function as an integral part of a hybrid-bumper energy-management systern. The use of TPOs in these applications presents a nuraber of opportunities for cost and weight savings. Engineered polyolefins can be used instead of more expensive materials, such as engineering plastics and foam, for absorbing impact energy. The low specific gravity of these plastics offers significant weight reductions resulting in lighter vehicles and improved fuel economy. The ease of processing provides tooling flexibility, lower tonnage, and lower molding temperatures. Bumper stylists are demanding shapes that are more complex with less bumper overhang. Injection molding allows for shapes that are more intricate and provides the advantage of less packaging space in the bumper system. Expensive stamped steel parts can be reduced or eliminated with composite plastic steel systems. Finally, materials in the SEQUEC 1800 series of engineered polyolefins can afford the same aesthetic benefits as previous generations of TPOs. MIC parts can be produced due to the excellent weatherability of these plastics. FP and PP are also options. Solvay Engineered Polymers is continuing development on advanced bumper systems, specificafly in the area of pedestrian safety for the European market, and injection-molded bumper energy absorbers.
The use of engineered polyolefins for energy absorption in various bumper system applications
Einsatz modifizierter Polyolefinwerkstoffe zur Energieabsorption in verschiedenen Stossfängeranwendungen
SPE Automotive TPO Global Conference, 4 ; 281-295
2002
15 Seiten, 20 Bilder, 2 Tabellen
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch
The Use of Engineered Polyolefins for Energy Absorption in Various Bumper System Applications
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