High Modulus/High Performance Supports Metal to Plastic Designs
The Beneficial Evolution of Metal to Plastic Parts :
BASF uses cutting edge computer aided design (CAD) and engineering
tools to analyze the conversion of metal to plastic parts,
which reduces the weight and cost of high performance structural
components. One example is the liftgate found on SUV, CUV
and hatchback vehicles. The design flexibility of the CAE software
allows the bracket to be analyzed, and optimized for
improved noise and vibration performance.
This metal to plastic parts conversion benefits the customer
and consumer by merging and combining parts, reducing and
eliminating assembly operations and decreasing the weight.
For example, the weight of a typical steel lift gate bracket is
4.0 lbs., while the plastic version only weighs 2.0 lbs. This is
a 50% weight reduction! This benefits the environment and the
consumer as it contributes to decreased amounts of CO2 being
released into the atmosphere and improves gasoline mileage
per gallon.
BASF
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