LS Mtron, Hyundai Partner to Advance Eco-friendly Plastic Part Technology

LS Mtron and Hyundai Motor Co. have entered into a partnership to co-develop advanced injection molding technology for manufacturing eco-friendly plastic components. The memorandum of understanding (MOU), which was signed on Oct. 23 at Hyundai’s Uiwang Research Center in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, outlines plans to utilize LS Mtron’s multi-component technology and hybrid foam molding methods to support the mass production of lightweight automotive parts using post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials. Key executives, including Hyundai Tooling Center Director Jin-seok Choi and LS Mtron Injection Systems Business Division Head Chan-seong Park, attended the signing ceremony.

Solving injection molding challenges

The collaboration specifically aims to address common injection molding challenges, such as sink marks on structural features caused by shrinkage and gas marks resulting from resin foaming during the molding process.

To overcome these challenges, LS Mtron plans to implement its hybrid physical foam injection molding technology, which uses physical foaming expansion to counter shrinkage while co-injection techniques reduce surface gas marks. This approach is expected to improve quality and achieve significant advances in weight reduction, especially in large parts like automotive door garnishes.

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LS Mtron and Hyundai executives give a big thumbs up to the signing of a memorandum of understanding. Image courtesy of LS Mtron.

The collaboration will also leverage LS Mtron’s 1300-ton injection molding machine and high-precision physical foam system to enable precise molding and lightweight production of large components. This technical advance promises to address quality issues found in traditional processes and contribute to producing lighter, more-durable automotive parts.

Leveraging gas injection to support lightweighting

Hybrid physical foam injection molding technology developed by LS Mtron allows for high-pressure gas injection into plastic, creating a lightweight, porous structure. This process effectively addresses issues such as warping and shrinkage while simultaneously enabling high-quality mass production of lightweight parts by combining foaming and co-injection methods.

Specifically designed for large-scale production, LS Mtron’s 1300-ton injection molding machine integrates multi-component technology and foaming processes to ensure stable output of high-strength, lightweight parts. This development is expected to yield significant cost reductions, improve quality, and promote environmentally responsible manufacturing.

Advances in sustainable practices

Through this MOU, LS Mtron and Hyundai aim to produce eco-friendly, high-quality automotive parts that contribute to lightweighting. Additionally, by incorporating PCR materials, they are advancing sustainable practices, improving fuel efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions for Hyundai vehicles.

Chan-seong Park, executive vice president of LS Mtron, stated: “Long term, LS Mtron and Hyundai will strengthen their collaboration to develop advanced manufacturing technologies for future plastic automotive parts, focusing on lightweight design, quality, and sustainability.” Hyundai’s Tooling Center Director Jin-seok Choi added: “This MOU will facilitate close cooperation between our companies, with a consultative body established to promote active research and development.”