When it comes to manufacturing large, distinctive radiator
grilles that meet the highest requirements thanks to their exceptional
mechanical and thermal properties, Makroblend® DP 7645 from Bayer
MaterialScience AG is a much-sought-after material. The blend of
polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate (PC/PET) has already
celebrated its market debut in the radiator grilles for the Audi A8, Audi
A6, Audi A4 and Audi A3 Sportback. Now the Volkswagen Group has decided to
utilize the material worldwide for this application. Consequently, the new
Passat is already being fitted with a radiator grille made using the blend.
The component is manufactured by Gerhardi Kunststofftechnik GmbH of
Lüdenscheid, Germany, and coated with a one-coat paint in accordance with
Volkswagen's specifications. The grille's chrome-plated frames are also
manufactured with a material from Bayer MaterialScience - the PC/ABS blend
Bayblend® T45PG (plating grade).
"Makroblend® DP 7645 is a perfect match for the complex requirements that
inevitably result from the trend toward large radiator grilles. This
explains its success on the market," explains Dirk Loof, Key Account
Manager for Volkswagen at Bayer MaterialScience. Its high stiffness and
heat resistance coupled with a high impact strength at low temperatures
down to -40 °C mean the material has exactly the right characteristics
profile that Volkswagen requires for its radiator grilles. The material is
able to meet the increased requirements for pedestrian protection, and good
resistance to typical vehicle chemicals such as gasoline, lubricants, oils,
road salt and cleaning fluids is a further key feature that sets the PC/PET
blend apart.
http://www.bayermaterialscience.com
Posted 12th April 2005
