Instrument Panel

This represents the first cosmetic use of GR-TPO in a heavy truck IP. The injection-molded MIC surface offers improved haptic feel with lower gloss, improved scratch & mar resistance, better fit & function, and improved noise absorption.  Replacing MIC PC/PBT, the application is 17% lighter, and 12% less costly than prior technology. Recycling options for both PIR and PCR reclaimation also are improved. The high-flow material requires less gating, lowering tooling costs and reducing startup scrap, providing a tooling cost-avoidance reduction of $100,000 USD. The need for secondary paint is also eliminated, reducing VOC emissions.

OEM/Vehicle Peterbilt Motors Co. 2012 Peterbilt 587 System Supplier Consolidated Metco, Inc. Material Processor Consolidated Metco, Inc.

Material Supplier Equistar Chemicals Resin Softell TKG300NU TPO Tooling/Equipment Supplier Delta Mold, Inc.

For More Information See: http://www.plastics-car.com/Todays-Automobiles/Auto-Interior/Instrument-Panels.html

Length-Adjustment Motor-Module Bracket

This length-adjustment motor bracket secures and protects the length-adjustment motor and flex-shafts for the seat structure. Replacing progressive die-stamped metal with 30% GR injection-molded PP, the 1-piece design increases stiffness (providing better motor protection during abusive customer loading), and decreases weight, part count, and tooling and piece costs. A common design provides motor protection and wire mounting across multiple vehicle lines, while eliminating rust and sharp edges found in the previous design. Weight is reduced 160 g and piece costs by $0.60 USD/seat.

OEM/Vehicle Ford Motor Co. 2012 Ford Escape/Kuga CUV System Supplier Magna Seating LVSS Material Processor Arkal Plastic Products

Material Supplier Celanese Corp. Resin Cestran PP 30% Glass Filled PP-GF30-04CN02/10 Black Tooling/Equipment Supplier Kuasu Mold China

 For More Information See: http://www.plastics-car.com/Plastics_101?css=print

Cushion-Pan Multi-Contour Seat Bracket

This injection-molded, 30% GR LFT PP seat support bracket replaced die-stamped metal and reduces mass 1,081 g while reducing tooling $240,000 USD and piece cost by $0.28 USD/seat.  The part incorporates plastic clips for trim tie downs required for proper trim appearance and reduces interior noise caused when the seat's plastic bladder rubs against the previous metal support bracket. Additionally, the LFT-PP material meets abusive loading requirements and supports the seat's massage bladder during operation while eliminating sharp edges under the seat. A common design can be used on both driver and passenger seats.

OEM/Vehicle Ford Motor Co. 2012 Lincoln MKZ luxury sedan System Supplier Brose North America Material Processor Carolina Plastics Inc.

Material Supplier Celanese Corp. Resin Cestran PP 30% Glass Filled PP-GF30-04CN02/10 Black

 For More Information See: http://www.plastics-car.com/Todays-Automobiles/Auto-Interior?css=print