DSM Engineering Plastics, Valeo join forces to develop fuel-efficient, low emission auto components

19-Nov-08

DSM Engineering Plastics announced the expansion of its longstanding partnership with French firm Valeo to develop enhanced technologies for reducing the environmental impact from vehicles. Valeo Engine Management Systems, a division of Valeo, is using Arnite polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polybutylene terephthalate/polyethylene (PBT/PET) resins from DSM Engineering Plastics in several innovative engine systems: electronic throttle control (ETC) exhaust gas recirculation (EGR); and ignition systems. Valeo is able offer automakers new ways to enhance driving satisfaction while minimizing environmental implications by replacing traditional materials with Arnite resins. DSM Engineering Plastics' Arnite TV4 461 PBT/PET resin, a 30% glass-filled grade, was selected by Valeo for the ETC and EGR covers, replacing traditional glass-filled PBT resin. The material's lower warpage and shrinkage, high dimensional stability, engine compartment heat resistance, better appearance than traditional PBT resin and equivalent flow properties to PBT led to its selection for the ETC and EGC. In the ignition ramp, Arnite TV6 241T - a 20% glass-filled and toughened grade - provides enhanced dielectric properties and resistance to thermal shock vs. the previous PBT resin.