PAWTUCKET, R.I., USA, October 20, 2014: New PVC compounds for automotive exterior moldings and trim make possible direct extrusion of smooth, textured surfaces that stay blemish-free after prolonged outdoor exposure, it was announced today by Teknor Apex Company.
The self-texturing capability built into Apex® 1545-D40 ST extrusion compounds makes secondary “texturing” steps such as top-coating or milling unnecessary. The compounds can be coextruded, bond well to metal, and exhibit physical properties comparable to standard PVC. Teknor Apex can provide custom color and gloss matching to many OEM standards, including the various shades of black used across the industry.
Recommended applications for the new products include the roof ditch moldings between roof and body sections, window lace trim between A pillars and windshield, and belt-line body trim. Current OEM approvals for Apex 1545-D40 ST compounds include General Motors GMW 16084 and Chrysler MSDC 543. The compounds are in commercial use on General Motors’ 2014 model year K2XX truck platforms.
“New Apex 1545-D40 ST compounds yield a homogeneous, scratch-resistant finish that stands up to the harsh weathering performance requirements of automotive OEMs,” said Steve McCormack, automotive industry manager for the Vinyl Division of Teknor Apex. “Teknor Apex can manufacture these compounds to identical specifications globally, making possible localized supply.”
Typical property values of Apex 1545-D40 ST compounds include Shore C and D hardness in the 60 to 70 and 34 to 44 ranges, respectively; specific gravity, 1.37 to 1.43; tensile strength, 8 to 18 MPa; and elongation at break, 150 to 250%.
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