Competence in Plastics - Brochure - BASF Plastics Portal

Product developments under the aspects of material strength and weight reduction:
• First engine sump for trucks made of a thermoplastic polymer ( Ultramid ® )
• Inlet manifold made from Ultramid
• Cellasto ® spring and damping element
For example, an inlet manifold made from plastic weighs half as much
as the corresponding metal part. Reducing the weight of a car by 100
kilograms reduces fuel consumption by around 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers.
Another advantage: Plastic doesn’t rust. Exterior parts therefore do
not need a surface coating. Plastic also improves safety – the airbag,
itself made of plastic fibers, is enclosed in a plastic housing, the steering
wheel and dashboard displays are surrounded by foamed plastic,
the mechanical components of safety belts or interior fittings – all these
things can be made with the help of BASF plastics.
Last but not least, polyurethane applications with Elastollan ® and
Elastoskin ® ensure that door handles, center consoles and dashboards
have a great surface feel and look good.
Not only automobiles benefit from the new materials. In shipbuilding, a
steel-polyurethane-steel composite ( Sandwich Plate System) is replacing
conventional steel components as structural elements. It offers
greater strength, better vibration absorbance and reduced weight, all
for lower overall costs. Plastics from BASF also improve economy, performance
and comfort in rail and air traffic.
moBiliTy – lighTEr, morE Economical, clEanEr
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