New High Heat ABS from ELIX Polymers delivers weight reduction for roof hatch application

Tarragona, November 25, 2015 – BOS Group, a leading supplier of innovative systems and components for the automotive industry, selected new High Heat ABS HH3114 from ELIX Polymers for the production of roof hatches for heavy duty trucks of a German premium automobile manufacturer.

The roof hatch is produced using state-of-the-art injection mould technology with sequential controlled hot runner valve gates. The material ELIX ABS HH3114 was chosen to meet the high requirements of the application and, following mold-flow-analysis, the technical departments of BOS, Schulman and ELIX Polymers worked together intensively to design both the part and the tool.

The part, which requires complex assembly and features several innovative functions, was produced in special colours to match the truck’s interior.

In production, HH3114 offers a number of processing advantages. These include excellent processability and high flow, resulting in competitive cycle times. Less mould deposits means less mould cleaning and bring significant cost savings and higher productivity. The final part offers a weight reduction of 8% when compared to PC/ABS thanks to the lower density of High Heat ABS (1.04) vs PC/ABS (1.13). Moreover, high heat ABS is more economical than PC/ABS.

ELIX ABS HH3114 is part of a new range of high heat materials developed by ELIX Polymers. In addition to processing and performance benefits, the range is characterised by its very low emissions and odour – for example, HH3114: VDA277=9,9 μg C/g, VDA278 VOC=16/FOG=3 μg/g (ppm), VDA270=3,0.

Fabian Herter said: “The successful development of this part was made possible thanks to the close cooperation between all four partners. The end result clearly shows that the use of High Heat ABS can lead to major innovations and significant cost savings. Overall, our new High Heat ABS Portfolio is able to meet the stringent requirements of the Automotive Industry in both interior and exterior applications.”