Recognizing a demand in the marketplace for thermoplastic to thermosetting elastomer bonded multicomponent solutions,
Until now, bonding thermoplastic to thermosetting elastomer, or rubber, with the necessary strength has not been possible. Established ways to produce multicomponent parts already exist for bonding plastic to thermoplastic elastomer and plastic to liquid silicone rubber (LSR). The base for these is always an engineered plastic, which withstands the heat required for overmolding.
In addition, for bonding plastic to thermoplastic elastomer and plastic to LSR, material suppliers offer compounds specifically for bonding and can provide information on the bonding performance of the materials. However, for thermosetting elastomers there is no information available, especially as compounds can be proprietary.
The task of the
Having already validated nearly 50 different material combinations, the center continues testing to build an extensive database of possible combinations and test specifically to customer requirements.
Borg adds: 'Multicomponent technology allows production of components that cannot be produced by any other method, pushing the limits of manufacturing innovation. It brings tangible benefits to equipment manufacturers in many sectors, helping them to meet design goals, such as making products smaller and more compact, light weighting, increasing robustness, and improving inherent quality, while lowering total cost of ownership.
'To fully take advantage of all that multicomponent technology offers, it is best to involve us from early in the concept stage of product development. That allows us to understand the application, overall assembly, where the component fits and possible production challenges. We also look at all typical parameters for a sealing application, such as process media, temperature range, tolerances, and critical sealing surfaces. Considering every aspect creates a better product, not only from a user's point of view but from a design for manufacturing one; at an early stage optimizing the product for serial production in high volumes.'
Thermoplastic to thermosetting elastomer bonding adds to Trelleborg's established range of plastic to thermoplastic elastomer and plastic to LSR material combinations.
Multicomponent technology involves the bonding of two or more materials to create a single, often complex, component that would otherwise entail the assembly of numerous parts. As well as sealing, innovative designs can build in adjacent functions, such as structure, housing, and support.
Converting an assembly into a single component gives significant technical and commercial benefits. It alleviates risks associated with assembly and overcomes any issues related to tolerance stack-up, blind assembly or secondary operations. When replacing metal parts within an assembly, the components become corrosion resistant.
From a manufacturing point of view, there are fewer suppliers to manage and less items to stock, using just a single article number instead of several. As there is only one point of contact for the complete component, there are no triparty issues that can sometimes occur with an assembly.
To find out more and view the technical webinar on multicomponent technology, go to https://www.trelleborg.com/en/seals/products-and-solutions/latest-innovations/multicomponent
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