PPA resin picked for weldability

For a component that must have high stiffness and tensile strength, and be suitable for vibration welding, TRW Automotive has chosen Amodel polyphthalamide (PPA) from Solvay Advanced Polymers.

The resin is used for the cover and housing of the coil-integrated module that controls the hydraulic assembly in TRW’s 325 Series Vehicle Stability Enhancement System. TRW decided to mold both parts of the module’s exterior out of plastic, and to join them together by vibration welding.

“This is an economical process that can produce an effective seal against the rigors of the module’s operating environment,” explains Russ Juliette, a principle engineer at TRW. “We looked at other materials that met the mechanical requirements, but this Amodel grade has a lower percentage of glass reinforcement than other materials, only 15%. Any higher glass concentration would inhibit the creation of a good weld joint.”

Including glass and mineral content, Amodel A-1340 HS has a total reinforcement concentration of 40%, which mitigates against warping.

Solvay Advanced Polymers 248-645-1012