PolyOne improves automotive HVAC design and efficiency

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PolyOne improves automotive HVAC design and efficiency with specialty TPE solution

Tuesday, May 21, 2013
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Guangzhou, China - This week at the Chinaplas 2013, PolyOne GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers is featuring a specialized TPE for automotive heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) seal and flap applications. This material helps automakers improve the in-service performance of the HVAC system while reducing system costs associated with assembly and materials preparation. "We have worked closely with top automakers to develop a specialized OnFlex TPE formulation for use in HVAC systems," said Charles Page, global marketing director, PolyOne GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers. "Our focus has been on the consumer's need for reduced odor and the engineer's need for added design flexibility, ease of assembly and careful cost management. This solution meets all of these challenges." Customized OnFlex TPEs for automotive HVAC applications allow customers to optimize the performance of their HVAC systems while providing a more satisfying experience for the end consumer, including low odor and reduced outgassing. This material minimizes outgassing to ensure low odor and low fogging in automotive interiors, an important environmental advantage and a key differentiator over foamed polyurethane (PU) and thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). Also, unlike foamed PU, OnFlex TPE does not require glues that may cause odors. In contrast to TPVs, OnFlex specialty high-flow TPEs allow for broader design options, so that designers can create long, thin components. Suitable for high-speed injection molding and co-extrusion (overmolding) with polypropylene and other resins, this material is also colorable and offers excellent adhesion to the substrate resin when co-extruded. OnFlex TPEs help to streamline processing by reducing assembly steps as compared with foamed PU. Unlike TPVs, OnFlex TPE can be injection molded without the need for pre-drying, which reduces energy consumption and eliminates hassles associated with this time-consuming production step.