In order to achieve weight savings and cost reduction in producing truck radiator grilles, Rhodia and Inoplast have broken ground by creating the first polyamide reinforcement beam for this structural element of the truck. Rhodia's new-generation polyamide, Technyl Star™ AFX, is said to be the only material able to meet project specifications because of its unequalled mechanical strength coupled with its exceptional fluidity. As per the company, the use of this polyamide grade recued costs by 30% compared with an equivalent metal beam and cut weight by 10% plus. Technyl Star™ AFX is said to outperform standard polyamide, due to its exceptional rigidity, increased fluidity for ease of injection processing and remarkable surface appearance regardless of its high glass fiber content (up to 60%).
Rhodia Polyamide, Inoplast and the truck manufacturer collaborated for successful implementation of the new innovative truck radiator grille. Besides, Rhodia contributed its new MMI* technology (Multi-scale modelling, Mechanical calculation, Injection moulding simulation), a new-generation simulation tool for polyamide parts by taking glass fiber orientation into consideration in structural calculations. This enabled Inoplast to more precisely define the ideal part design needed to meet rigidity and vibratory control requirements for the beam, while optimizing its weight.
31-Mar-09 
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