INTERIORS AND EXTERIORS | AUTOMOTIVE
entire step of the process. Engel also demonstrated a second IMD applica- tion (IMD PUR) at its partner Leonhard Kurz’s stand at K2019, where sample parts based on front panels were produced via the Clearmelt process on a Duo 2460/900 injection moulding machine with an Easix articulated robot. These parts meet the new requirements for sensors. The Clearmelt process involves refining the surface using a polyurethane top coat, which is especially effective in exterior use due to its highly glossy and scratch-resistant properties. The thermoplastic and PUR processing can either be carried out in sequence or in parallel using a horizontal rotary table, depending on the number of parts and the conditions in the injection moulding shop. The other partner companies involved in this exhibit were Hennecke, Votteler, SABIC and Velodyne LiDar. Engel adds that LEDs are becoming more
versatile in their use in vehicles, increasingly being added as distinctive design elements. The level of variation in their shape is growing accordingly, creating new challenges for optical fibre manufac- turers. The company has developed a new plasti- cising process specifically for PMMA processing to ensure high luminous efficiency, even in cases featuring complex shapes and long structures, such as outline lighting. This increases the homogeneity and purity of the melt, making new options available to lighting designers. “Even the most subtle shades of yellow invisible to the human eye reduce the light intensity,” says Steinbichler. “By reducing the thermal stress and ensuring airtightness, we can also minimise material damage to LED shapes with long flow paths. The result is ultra-clean optical fibres, which allow for LEDs with even longer and more complex structures.”
Material developments Teknor Apex has introduced the Creamid P Series of polyamide 6 (PA 6) compounds that absorb
Above: Engel has developed a new plasticising process specifically for PMMA processing to ensure high luminous efficiency, even in cases featuring complex shapes and long structures
nearly one-third less water at saturation than standard grades, provide 15-25% improved tensile properties in the conditioned state, and exhibit higher flow and good surface characteristics, even in highly glass-filled formulations. The compounds are designed for use in automotive interior and exterior applications. The company says that the Creamid P series is the newest product family of higher performance speciality polyamide compounds for structural components in metal replacement applications. The compounds are based on formulation technol- ogy that can be applied to lower the moisture uptake of a broad range of polyamide 6- and 6/66-based compounds. These include grades with various types and loadings of reinforcements or fillers, as well as impact-modified toughened grades and other speciality compounds. Creamid P Series compounds can further employ an ad- vanced heat stabilisation system that extends continuous use temperature. At K2019 Teknor Apex introduced the first two Creamid P compounds with 30% and 50% glass
Figure 1. Comparison of tensile modulus: Teknor Apex Creamid P versus PA 6 50% GF and 30% GF
www.injectionworld.com
Figure 2. Comparison of tensile strength: Teknor Apex Creamid P versus PA 6 50% GF and 30% GF
November/December 2019 | INJECTION WORLD 59
PHOTO: ENGEL
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