Plastic replaces metal in snow chainsPlastic replaces metal in snow chains

The most treacherous winter driving requires the placement of metal chains on car and truck tires, forcing drivers to kneel in frozen muck along the road side, exposing themselves to the elements and traffic, as they position metal chains beneath tire treads and roll their car into place. TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) based GoClaws from Advanced Traction Systems Inc. present a plastic alternative the maker says greatly eases installation while offering outstanding wear, driving more than 300 miles on snow-covered and dry pavement while showing little, if any, signs of wear. Injection molded from a proprietary polymer, GoClaws are available for cars, trucks, RVs, and snowmobiles.

Advanced Traction Systems is receiving support from materials supplier Alliance Polymers & Services, a supplier of Polymax Maxelast thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and BASF Elastollan TPUs. Alliance has invested in the company, offering material samples, beside-the-press advice/formulations, while providing free technical support. It is also distributing the proprietary TPU used in the GoClaws throughout the U.S.