RIM - A process for the 90's

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RIM - A process for the 90's

Martinez, E.C. / Sato, T.J.

Reaction Injection Molding (RIM) systems based on polyurea chemistry provide an excellent balance of thermal and mechanical properties for high performance, damage resistant vertical automotive body panels. Improvements in painted part surface quality and RIM economics through the use of low cost alternate fillers and automation of the RIM process is the subject of this report. New filler technology has been developed which provides painted part surface quality comparable to steel panels and reduces manufacturing costs. Fast cure, lower cycle time, self-releasing polyurea systems offer the potential for automation of the RIM process. Even though automation requires a greater unit capital investment compared to RIM today, automated RRIM capital requirements for new plants remain significantly lower than thermoplastic injection molding (TIM) plants. The productivity increases gained through automation of the RIM process result in a substantial reduction in molded part cost compared to RRIM today and TIM. RRIM, coupled with polyurea chemistry, remains the lowest cost alternative for high quality, damage resistant body panels.