Blow molding copolyester grade Arnitel PB500-H from DSM Engineering Plastics (Sittard. Netherlands) has been approved for dirty and clean air ducts employed in the 1.3 JTD engines used on the Fiat Group Automobiles platforms Fiat Minicargo and Lancia Epsilon (euro V) and for the new Lancia Epsilon. Dirty air ducts convey the air before the air filter, whereas clean air ducts are situated in the engine between the air filter and the turbo-compressor.

This new blow molding grade of Arnitel ThermoPlastic Copolyester (TPC) is reported to be particularly suited for blow molding of complex shaped air duct applications in the automotive industry for use at continuous use temperatures (CUT) of 130°C. The new material was developed by DSM Engineering Plastics in conjunction with Fiat Group Automobiles and Tier 1 systems supplier Mecaplast (Monaco).

Arnitel PB500-H meets the Fiat Group Automobiles technical requirements, whilst at the same time offering a cost advantage over current solutions. According to Fiat, with a hardness Shore D=50, Arnitel offers new design freedom and a range of material properties that facilitate easy assembly and higher tolerances on the final design layout.

Ludovic Poix, Fiat Project Manager at Mecaplast, says: "Arnitel PB500-H offers good and stable processibility even in achieving complex shapes. The material delivers a superior smooth inner surface with no orange or 'crocodile' skin effects. We found it very flexible, over the whole temperature range of -40 up to 150°C. Moreover, Arnitel offers good weldability with PBT fittings/couplings."

Paolo Rossi, Fiat Business Development Manager, explains: "Requirements for under-the-bonnet (UTB) applications are changing constantly. Environmental requirements, Euro V and VI legislation and the call for reduced fuel consumption have resulted in significant changes such as the use of smaller and lighter engines with higher turbo pressures and EGR (exhaust gas recirculation). As a consequence, automobile UTB components such as air ducts are exposed to continuously rising operating temperatures. With increasingly critical temperature and tougher life time requirements, long term service life of components made from current thermoplastics can be at risk."

Arnitel reportedly delivers cost efficient solutions for airducts combining high performance with cost savings through a single piece solution. Arnitel processes faster and lowers weight.-[email protected]