RTP Company, which makes custom engineered thermoplastics, has developed new thermoplastic compounds that reportedly weigh 5-10% less than typical filled compounds, and have equivalent mechanical properties and similar shrinkage values.
According to the company representatives, the compounds can make parts molded with glass fiber reinforcement lighter without compromising performance or requiring modifications to existing tools.
In tests compared to standard glass fiber reinforced materials, there can be a dramatic difference in density and a slight difference in tensile strength, RTP says. Unlike chemical foaming agents, the density reduction is not dependent on wall thickness and since the compound can be used as a drop-in solution with existing tooling, the switch from other materials can be a smooth transition.
‘LT Compounds from RTP Company are best used as lightweight alternatives when the goal is to minimize energy consumption or the amount of human effort required to use the part, said Jason Kafader, structural product manager at RTP. ‘This makes them an ideal material for handheld, battery-operated tools, sporting goods, handheld appliances, recreational vehicles, and other common markets for glass fiber reinforced compounds that will benefit from reductions in weight.’
This story uses material from RTP, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.
