Styrenic resin is in-mold-coated for first time with KraussMaffei’s ColorForm process

Ineos Styrolution’s Luran S KR 2864C styrenic grade has been selected by a leading global car manufacturer for a windscreen A pillar body trim. This represents the first commercial application of Luran S KR 2864C with KrausMaffei’s ColorForm technology.

ColorForm technology developed by KraussMaffei entails liquid in-mold painting of the thermoplastic body material. The paint is injected directly between the mold and the part surface. No second work step is needed. The ColorForm process streamlines painting and hardening into one.

A polyurethane (PU) or polyurea (PUA) surface material is injected in the second injection cycle. This provides an exceptionally high-quality, scratch-resistant surface. PUA supplied by Panadur GmbH eliminates the need for mold release agents, reportedly resulting in a significant reduction in cycle time.

Luran S KR 2864C is a high-grade polymer with enhanced heat resistance and the best chemical resistance among the ASA grades. It is already well-known – particularly in the automotive industry – for its high UV-stability and excellent processability. Automobile component manufacturers will find that Luran S KR 2864C processed with the ColorForm technology can provide a more cost-efficient alternative to traditional painting and at the same time offering enhanced properties.

Frank Krabbenborg, Technical Account Manager Automotive, Styrenics Specialties EMEA, Ineos Styrolution Netherlands BV, sees great potential for Luran S KR 2864C processed with ColorForm: “It offers users a quick entry into processing of the future generation. It’s the next innovation, providing integrated processes for surface-coated components.”

The automotive industry demands the highest product quality to fulfil consumers’ constantly evolving expectations. Multiple components in a variety of sizes requiring high-gloss finishes present a challenge for manufacturers of electronics, consumer goods and packaging as well.

For automotive manufacturers seeking safer and more economical manufacturing of multi-component elements, ColorForm sets new standards in terms of efficiency. Taking advantage of polyuria from Panadur GmbH eliminates the need for mold release agents, resulting in a significant reduction of the process interval periods. Manufacturing costs are lower and work waste virtually eliminated because of a drop in reject rates.

The superior surface aesthetics of the final solutions allow for new designs while improving productivity and sustainability. Customers receive completely refined components, high-gloss and surface-textured products directly generated from the tool and completed without separate re-polishing. Luran S KR 2864C used with the ColorForm technology is extremely scratch-resistant because of the polyurea coating and the result also ensures longer-lasting quality and sustainability.

 “The Ineos Styrolution materials are highly contributing to the aesthetics of the new generation of cars. Having close partnerships with embellishing technology providers allows us to develop solutions with extremely high quality requirements of our customers and of users,” comments Christophe Ginss, Sales Director Automotive EMEA with global coordination role.