Plastics offer a solution that is lighter in weight than metal and rubber. In addition, plastics enable the production of parts with complex geometries, meaning its possible to convert a number of components into a single, simplified part. Doing this not only reduces costs, it reduces the chance of failure, since each assembly step or joining point can be a source of error.
With the right design and engineering support, switching to plastics can improve the quality and performance of the part – even in the most challenging under-the-hood environments – while also combining the benefits of weight reduction, fewer processing steps, and overall cost reduction.
When we supported our customer through the development of a hot charge air duct that would be a single, flexible, thermoplastic piece, we delivered a part with lower cost and mass then rubber, fewer potential leak paths versus the previous rubber hose and rigid duct subassembly, and improved performance at high temperatures, high pressures, and with chemical exposure. Our Arnitel HT material delivered excellent property retention at continuous operating temperatures up to 180°C, and thinner walls with up to 50% weight reduction versus rubber.
Our proven case studies show the combined benefit plastics offer to reduce cost and part complexity, reduce weight, and improve quality and performance.
Ask us how we can help you design a thermoplastic part that is simpler and more cost effective.
