Trelleborg, Sweden -- Trelleborg Automotive has acquired a manufacturing licence to produce Dow Hyperlast's Autothane products -- made from an advanced polyurethane closed cell material based on MDI (methylene diphenyl diisocyanate). The system meets demanding OEM specifications for Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH), vehicle ride and handling improvements, said a 5 March statement from the Swedish-based group.
Under the agreement, Trelleborg Automotive has exclusive manufacturing rights for Autothane in North and South America and Europe, with non-exclusive rights in Asia.
Autothane is a high-performance microcellular elastomer whose closed-cell structure "competes with and, in some cases, outperforms competitive products based on NDI (naphthalene diisocyanate)." The material has excellent hydrolytic stability and can withstand repeated high load compression, returning to its original shape, Trelleborg said.
According to Wade Singler, Micro Cellular Urethane business development manager at Trelleborg Automotive, "This is an excellent opportunity for Trelleborg to extend its PU expertise and product offering. In addition it paves the way for future co-operation with the Dow Hyperlast team to create new hybrid materials that further meet changing market needs."
Applications for Autothane are in suspension systems to manage shock, impact and vibration, improving vehicle handling and safety -- in passenger cars, commercial vehicles and motorsport applications. Autothane provides excellent resistance to water, salt, oils, fuels, chemicals, grease, ozone and microbial attack. It also withstands extremes of temperature and climate, the company added.
With this move, Trelleborg Automotive said it expects to extend its product portfolio and add "a competitive edge," with a choice of polymers including rubber, silicone, thermoplastics, composites and polyurethanes.
"The Autothane licence enables us to provide a more durable PU product for jounce bumper, top strut, spring seat, body mount and suspension bush applications", said Singler.
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