A newly developed series of flexible PVC injection molding compounds that have been used successfully in automotive window encapsulation reportedly exhibit substantially lower levels of surface gloss, providing a rubberlike finish that matches that of adjacent EPDM components while retaining the cost-performance advantages of PVC. Teknor Apex Company will introduce the enhanced formulations at NPE 2018 (Booth S22045).

The newly enhanced Apex 1523-LG Series exhibits gloss levels similar to those of EPDM rubber beltline seals or glass run channels, enabling manufacturers of PVC-encapsulated windows to meet OEM demand for a closer match in the surface finish of these critical appearance parts. The lowest gloss levels of standard PVC compounds for window encapsulation are in the 9 to 12 range as defined by SPI gloss finish standards, and they are achieved through etching or sandblasting of the tooling surface. In contrast, Apex 1523-LG Series compounds achieve a gloss level in the 3 to 4 range without need for surface treatment of the tooling. This eliminates the costs associated with the tooling maintenance and repair required to keep a consistent surface appearance from part to part. 

Apex 1523-LG Series compounds have received several OEM material approvals, including the GMW-16084 specification for quarter windows from General Motors and the MSDC543 specification for quarter windows and sunroofs from Chrysler. Teknor Apex can manufacture these compounds in the U.S., Europe, and China.

“Our introduction of low-gloss compounds is particularly important since PVC is the dominant material for window encapsulation and is valued by manufacturers for its advantages over elastomers,” said Steve McCormack, industry manager of the Teknor Apex Automotive Group. “Like standard PVC, new Apex 1523-LG Series formulations are relatively low in cost, provide better scratch and mar resistance, excellent bonding to glass, and superior colorability. Teknor Apex says it can match to any color and supply uniform product no matter how many places in the world a customer carries out manufacturing.