Adding plastics to car bodies makes sense for automobile manufacturers in the future. Saving money and providing parts that resist corrosion is a value added for consumers, while plastics can be recycled once a car has been outdated. Engineers are now looking at ways to use parts in cars. Here are just a few ways that those car parts are being manufactured using thermoplastic processes:
- Thermoplastic car parts involve a multi-step process. The plastic extrusion process used to make car parts involves starting with lightweight PC/ABS body panels and then coating them in order to create a finished product. This combination creates a lightweight but strong final material that is appropriate for automotive use.
- Finished car parts offer a decrease in vehicle weight, increasing gas economy and efficiency. One of the biggest benefits of using thermoplastic car parts is that they are lightweight. Unlike equivalent metal parts, these plastic profiles weigh almost a staggering 60% less. This decrease in weight equals a large improvement in gas economy.
- Additives make a large difference in this custom plastic extrusion process. One of the biggest innovations in this process is the inclusion of additives in the extrusion process that allow the initial plastic form to better adhere to the coating. This also allows for a more streamlined manufacturing process, as the parts release more easily from the forming tools.
- Thermoplastic car parts cost less to manufacture. In addition to a decrease in weight and gas usage, these plastic extrusions cost much less to manufacture, saving automotive industry manufacturers cost, which can then be passed onto the consumer.
Would you like to learn more about how custom plastic extrusions can help your company? Call Extrudex today for more information!