Recently many different types of semi-structural composite materials have appeared in the automotive market. Already well known are the GMT (Glass Mat Thermoplastic) materials, which are processed by compression molding. However, GMT materials are being replaced more and more with other types of semi-long fiber reinforced PP materials. An example of such a material is StaMax P, consisting usually of 12 mm long pellets containing glass fibers with the same length, covered within the PP matrix. In this article, a passenger-side door module will be discussed. The door module is a pre-assembied item that is fitted into the metal door structure, and contains numerous functional items, such as locks, window regulators, speakers, etc. The discussion includes reasons why a door module should be used and why a long glass fiber reinforced polypropylene PP) product is a good material of choice. As an example the develpment of the door modules for the new Ford Fiesta is given, including the mechanical and production design of the StaMax P long glass PP carrier. Special attention is paid to the excellent dimensional reproducibility of this material which is critical for door module designs in which the carrier also manages the wet and dry separation (e.g. 'sealed' designs). Further integration potential for future door modules is also highlighted.
Development in thermoplastic door modules
Entwicklung im Bereich thermoplastischer Türmodule
2003
10 Seiten, 20 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 1 Quelle
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch
Developments in Thermoplastic Door Modules
SAE Technical Papers | 2003
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