To replace a sand-cast aluminum transmission cover on its ATVs, Polaris chose a new 60% glass-filled nylon 4/6 grade (Stanyl TW241F12 from DSM Engineering Plastics) that is also heat stabilized and lubricated. Polaris? manufacturing partner, Team Industries (Bagley, MN), proposed the switch to save time and cost by eliminating two machining steps?one to accommodate O-ring glands and one for flatness on the top side to enable installation of a rotary switch.

Jim Conkey, DSM product engineer, explains, ?This material works for a few reasons. It has high stiffness characteristics, low warpage, and it can be molded complete in one step, saving time and money vs. the aluminum machined part. This particular grade is engineered to meet exactly this challenge, the replacement of diecast aluminum.?

In targeting this grade for metal replacement applications, the company says that it focused on expanded structural performance at elevated temperatures to broaden the ability to create value in low-cost, high-performance parts vs. diecast aluminum.

DSM Engineering Plastics, Evansville, IN
(800) 333-4237; [email protected]
www.dsmep.com