Class-A Structural RIM for Automotive Body Panels

Historically, structural reaction injection molding (SRIM) has been restricted to use in non-appearance applications because of problems with glass “read-out” and surface porosity. In this experimental work, a SRIM resin was developed which provides a Class-A surface on an automotive hood after passing through production bonding and painting conditions. The surface quality of production bonded and primed SRIM hoods was measured using LORIA* and D-Sight ** surface analysis techniques. The performance of bonded SRIM hoods was measured by way of stiffness and torsional rigidity tests. The physical and mechanical properties of test specimens taken from SRIM hood parts were measured. An approach for recycling SRIM hoods was proposed. In addition to achieving high surface quality, the goal of this development effort was to produce lightweight, cost-competitive Class-A SRIM parts.