Modular bumper system withstands low-temperature impacts
Canadian Plastics
Developed at the request of northern truck drivers for winter hazards such as snowbanks, Volvo Trucks' new modular bumper system consists of a steel bumper, a two-component air dam, two bumper end cap...
Developed at the request of northern truck drivers for winter hazards such as snowbanks, Volvo Trucks’ new modular bumper system consists of a steel bumper, a two-component air dam, two bumper end caps and four optional spoiler covers. Other than the steel bumper, Volvo manufactures all of the components from Bayblend T 85, a general-purpose polycarbonate/ABS blend from Bayer. Its properties include toughness, rigidity, dimensional stability and good processability.
“We evaluated other materials for their low-temperature impact properties. We found that other injection molded materials cracked on impact conditions below 0F. We selected the Bayblend material because it had excellent energy absorption properties and held up significantly upon impact,” said Jason Spence, associate design engineer for Volvo Trucks North America. Mack Molding Company uses gas assist to mold the components in either 1,500- or 500-ton presses.
For truckers, the modular system means fewer collision repairs and, when repairs are needed, lower costs because only damaged parts — not the whole bumper — need to be replaced.
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