DSM has launched Arnite A-X07455, a high performance polyethylene terephthalate (PET) engineering plastic that is said to be resistant to hydrolysis. The grade is being targeted at a variety of automotive under-the-bonnet applications, including throttle valve bodies, sensors, air control valve housings, electronic throttle control (ETC) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) covers, and ignition systems. The product, apart from being hydrolysis resistant, is also claimed to exhibit stiffness, strength and dimensional stability. Arnite A-X07455, which contains 50% glass reinforcement, has a tensile stress at break of 200MPa, according to ISO 527.
As a result of continuous engine downsizing, particularly in the compact car segment, temperatures under the bonnet are going up, putting extra demands on plastics components used in this area. On top of this, identical electronic components are used in vehicles sold and used worldwide, which means they need to operate under a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions. Therefore, there is an increasing need for materials that retain key properties such as strength, stiffness and impact strength under demanding hot-humid conditions.
www.dsm.com/automotive
The hydrolysis resistant Arnite A polyester has been launched for dimension-critical auto parts. (photo: DSM)
