Automotive

Challenge: Thin-walled POM housings of loudspeakers for cars are highly demanding injection molding applications characterized by long polymer flow paths and very tight flow channels in the mold. The main functional area of the part is formed as a filigree net, to provide a maximum output area for the acoustic wave. To achieve this, a low polymer viscosity, very good processability and excellent color and heat stability properties are required to avoid the occurrence of thermal degradation, color shift and white burn marks on the surface of the part. Also, as POM degrades, formaldehyde is released into the air, producing irritating fumes which can present a health hazard. This is accompanied by a very high off spec ratio of molded parts.

Solution: Incorporating special pigments and additives into GRANULA combination masterbatches, we maximized the processability of POM materials. We achieved shorter injection molding cycle times, a very low off spec ratio, safe work environment for production personnel and a strongly improved part profitability. The products exhibit a perfect surface structure, resulting in value-added injection molded housings in all colors.