EVALUATING EXTRUSION COMPRESSION MOLDING FOR IMPARTING BETTER SURFACE FINISH IN LONG FIBER THERMOPLASTICS USING IN- MOLD FILM TECHNOLOGY

摘要

Automotive applications of compression molded products with a thermoplastic matrix have been growing rapidly within the last few years, as demonstrated by increased use in applications including front-ends, bumper beams, dashboards, and under body shields. Long fiber thermoplastics (LFTs) have received much attention due to their processability by conventional technologies. However, applications of LFT materials have been limited in external body parts that require a good surface finish. Painting LFT parts is rare and requires considerable equipment investment. Further, painting is often associated with environmental concerns such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and high energy consumption.