New high-load, plastic-metal hybrid materials introduced

Rhodia Engineering Plastics has developed a range of closed, metal-plastic hybrid structures targeted for high-load bearing structural automotive applications. Rhodia says potential benefits of the new design include parts integration, depth, weight and size reduction, cost savings, enhanced energy absorption and value-added appearance.

The closed design of the structures, with either no rib or hollow enclosure, is a twist on the more conventional open rib design of metal-plastic hybrid structures. In the latter case, thin metallic sections are molded over with thermoplastic ribs. While these structures provide good strength-to-cost ratio, their effective mechanical strength and stiffness is highly dependent on the direction of the applied load. The end result, according to Rhodia, is complex mold requirements which must be met by means of sophisticated hot runner technology and/or the use of very low-viscosity resins.

The new closed-rib and related hollow designs have a more balanced profile of high stiffness and strength, regardless of the load direction. The hollow sections may be used to integrate other functions. Rhodia has been investigating several different closed hybrid methodologies involving the company’s Technyl Star polyamide resin for the plastic fraction of the structure.

Rhodia Engineering Plastics 248-994-6120