Plastic in the automotive industry: from prototype to series

Plastics in the automotive industry: from prototype to series

We work daily with plastic materials in various applications, but one of the most interesting areas is the automotive industry. Here, plastics are used in a wide range of components, from the engine compartment to the interior. In this article, we will take a closer look at how plastics are used in the automotive industry, from prototype to series production.

One of the first steps in the development of a new car is the prototype. Here, it is important to create a functional model that can be tested and evaluated. We offer a wide range of plastic materials that can be used for prototype production, such as PA6G and POM-C. These materials can be cut and processed to create complex shapes and details.

PA for under-hood components

PA, or polyamide, is a common material in the automotive industry. It is often used for components that are located in the engine compartment, such as clip holders and cable ties. PA is a strong and durable material that can withstand the harsh conditions in the engine compartment. We have a wide range of PA6G that can be used for these applications.

But why is PA chosen for under-hood components? Well, it is because PA has a high 65 Shore D hardness, which makes it very resistant to wear and corrosion. Additionally, PA is a lightweight material, which can contribute to weight reduction in the vehicle.

POM for fuel system components

POM, or polyoxymethylene, is another material used in the automotive industry. It is often used for components in the fuel system, such as fuel filters and fuel lines. POM is a strong and chemically resistant material that can withstand the harsh conditions in the fuel system.

We have a wide range of POM-C that can be used for these applications. POM-C is a material that is specially developed for high demands on chemical resistance and mechanical strength.

PE-UHMW for assembly lines

PE-UHMW, or polyethylene with ultra-high molecular weight, is a material used in the assembly lines of the automotive industry. It is often used for fixtures and other components that need to be very wear-resistant and resistant to chemicals. PE-UHMW is a material that can withstand the harsh conditions in the assembly lines and is therefore an excellent choice for these applications.

But what makes PE-UHMW so special? Well, it is due to its extremely high molecular weight, which gives the material a very high wear resistance and chemical resistance. Additionally, PE-UHMW is a lightweight material, which can contribute to weight reduction in the vehicle.

Weight reduction

Weight reduction is an important aspect in the automotive industry. By using lighter materials, you can reduce the weight of the vehicle, which can lead to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. We offer a wide range of plastic materials that can contribute to weight reduction in vehicles, such as PA6G, POM-C, and PE-UHMW.

But how can you know which material is best suited for a particular application? Well, it depends on a number of factors, such as the requirements for mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and wear resistance. We can help you choose the right material for your application.

Transition from prototype to series production

When the prototype is finished and tested, it is time to move on to series production. Here, it is important that the material used is reliable and can be produced in large volumes. We offer a wide range of plastic materials that can be used for series production, such as PA6G, POM-C, and PE-UHMW.

But what happens if the material does not meet the requirements in series production? Well, it can be a big problem, since it can lead to delays and increased costs. Therefore, it is important to choose the right material from the start, and to work with a supplier that can provide the material in the right quality and quantity.

Can we help you with your material selection? We have a long experience of working with plastic materials in the automotive industry, and we can give you advice and recommendations for choosing the right material for your application. Contact us for more information.