Apr 12 2005
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