When it comes to window encapsulation and other glass sealing applications, not just any thermoplastic will do.
It’s important to select a low gloss material that offers excellent glass bonding to prevent the passage of air, water and noise. It should also offer scratch and mar resistance, easy colorability and adjustable gloss levels so you can precisely match the appearance to OEM surface finish requirements.
For these reasons, PVC has emerged as the dominant choice over other elastomers. However, not every PVC grade is created equal.
At Teknor Apex, we’ve formulated flexible PVC injection molding compounds that provide these benefits — and more — in automotive window encapsulation. These Apex® 1523 compounds, such as the Apex 1523-LG Series, exhibit low levels of surface gloss and provide a rubber-like, matte finish that’s comparable to that of EPDM rubber. At the same time, Apex 1523 offers the cost and performance advantages of PVC, making it a superior choice over other elastomer sealing materials.
Here’s a rundown of some of the benefits you can expect from Apex 1523-LG PVC:
Low gloss levels.
Apex 1523-LG exhibits gloss levels similar to those of EPDM rubber beltline seals or glass run channels. This characteristic allows glass encapsulation manufacturers to closely match the surface finish appearance required by OEMs.
Lower tooling costs.
Typically, the lowest gloss levels for standard PVC compounds for window encapsulation are in the 9 to 12 range, as defined by plastics gloss finish standards. These levels are achieved via etching or sandblasting the tooling surface. Apex 1523-LG, on the other hand, achieves gloss levels in the 3 to 4 range. It also reduces the need for surface treating the tooling minimizing the costs associated with maintaining and repairing the tools to maintain a consistent surface appearance from part to part.
OEM approvals.
Apex 1523-LG compounds have received several OEM material approvals, such as the GMW-16084 specification for quarter windows from General Motors and the MSDC 243 specification for quarter windows and sunroofs from Chrysler.
We can also match any color and supply a uniform product — no matter where in the world you need it — thanks to our manufacturing presence in the United States, Europe and Asia.
Notable advantages of Apex 1523-LG include:
- Cost advantage compared to elastomers
- Superior scratch and mar resistance
- Low, adjustable gloss levels
- Colorability
- Excellent bonding to glass
- Superior weatherability
Looking for a low-gloss material for your window encapsulation application? Contact us today.
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