Thermoplastic resins for automotive applications

Today`s high-performance thermoplastics could potentially shave up to 16 kg (35 lb) from the drivetrains, fuel systems, and chassis of future cars by replacing metal. In applications already commercial, weight savings average 20 to 25%, and it is not uncommon for installed cost of components to be 20 to 25% lower than machined castings, forgings, and stampings. Moreover, plastics have inherent processing and economic advantages in volume production, and will have for the foreseeable future. This article focuses on engineering resins that can satisfy challenging automotive design requirements, discusses selection criteria, and provides examples of metal-replacement applications.