LANXESS is expanding the range of applications of extrusion blow moulding. Continuous fibre-reinforced thermoplastic composites of the Tepex brand can also be integrated in the production process.
LANXESS
LANXESS extends use of composite material to extrusion blow moulding
In a feasibility study, experts demonstrated that components made of PA 6 can be manufactured with blow moulding technology while receiving local reinforcement with Tepex at points subject to heavy loads. The investigations were performed on a state-of-the-art and close-to-production blow moulding machine at the technical centre of the High Performance Materials business unit (HPM) in Dormagen.
Arthur Rieb, Blow Molding Specialist at HPM, said: “The components show an outstanding adhesion, which allows utilisation of Tepex’s tremendous strength and rigidity.”
The process can be used to locally boost the mechanical performance of blow-moulded components in areas that are subject to high mechanical stress due to impact loads or high pressure.
“In addition,” Rieb added, “it is suitable for the manufacture of blow-moulded structural components, for example hollow sections for car body reinforcement. Extensive use of Tepex can be a key factor in reducing weight and material use because the basic wall thickness of the component can be decreased.”
Based purely on thermoplastic systems, the hollow parts are easy to recycle, thus making it easier to establish closed-loop material cycles.
The LANXESS HPM business unit has combined its expertise in material, application, procedural and technological development under the brand HiAnt so that it can support customers at all stages of component development. The service encompasses everything from concept design, material optimisation and the calculation of component characteristics by means of simulation tools right through to processing, component testing and the start of series production.
More information about LANXESS products and developments, technologies and services for blow molding and Tepex can be found at blow-molding.lanxess.com and bond-laminates.com.