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Improved RRIM Polyurethane Composites for Automotive Body Panels
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English
Abstract
The successful application of a reinforced RIM polyurethane composite to the Pontiac Fiero has made it the material of choice for vertical automotive body panels. The combination of the space-frame design and new assembly techniques, and the physical properties of the polyurethane composite provides advantages over sheet metal and competitive plastic materials in weight savings, styling freedom, corrosion- and damage-resistance, and production economics. The success of this program has been the result of cooperative effort among the raw material suppliers, the part molder, and the assembly plant, as well as equipment, reinforcement, coatings, and mold release manufacturers.
This paper summarizes the requirements of reinforced composites for automotive body panels in terms of physical property combinations, processing parameters, and surface quality. Incentives for the use of reinforced RIM polyurethanes are discussed in this light. Newly developed technology which provides the potential for significant further improvements in product quality and productivity will also be presented.
Topic
Citation
Abouzahr, S. and Taylor, R., "Improved RRIM Polyurethane Composites for Automotive Body Panels," SAE Technical Paper 850154, 1985, https://doi.org/10.4271/850154.Also In
References
- Ludwico W.A. Taylor R.P. “The Bayflex 110 Series - The New Generation of RIM Materials” Paper 770836, SAE Automotive Engineering Congress and Exposition Detroit, MI September 16-19 1977
- Taylor R.P. Phillips B.A. “The Evolution of High Performance Amine-Extended RIM Systems” Paper 810121, SAE International Congress and Exposition Detroit, MI February 23-27 1981
- Cekoric M.E. Ludwico W.A. Taylor R.P. “Reinforced RIM Urethanes for Automotive Fascia” Session 5-F, 37th Annual Conference Reinforced Plastics/Composites Institute Washington, DC January 11-15 1982
- Taylor R.P. Cekoric M.E. Ludwico W.A. “Improvements in Dimensional Stability of Polyurethane Automotive Fascia Through Glass Fiber Reinforcement” Paper 820220, SAE International Congress and Exposition Detroit, MI February 22-26 1982
- von Hassell A. “RIM Machinery and Materials Evolve Toward Higher Productivity” Plastics Technology November 1981 69 75
- “Self-releasing RIM: It Boosts Productivity 40%” Modern Plastics December 1982 24 26