Liquid polymer system lowers truck hood weight

A two-part, liquid reaction injection molding system based on dicyclopentadiene is used to mold the engine hood of the Kenworth W900L Class 8 truck model. Metton America’s two-part system combines a catalyst and an activator in a one-to-one ratio in a mixhead prior to low-pressure injection in a machined aluminum or nickel shell mold. Cast aluminum or kirsite molds may be used for parts that do not require a Class A surface finish. The material provides excellent paint adhesion and a 30% to 40% weight advantage over an FRP hood, according to Metton marketing manager, Garland Lee (right). A part is fully cured in one minute and cycle time is typically four to six minutes.

Before going into production the hood passed a “shake test” equivalent to 2.2 million road miles.

Metton America Inc. 404-349-4774