New high-temperature PA grades for under bonnet applications

New high-temperature PA grades for under bonnet applications

BASF has developed new polyamide grades offering improved heat resistance, improved flow, metallic colour and a combination of good colour stability and surface quality. It intends to make them available in commercial quantities during the second half of this year.

The Ultramid A3WG10 20560 HS (highly stabilised) 50% glass fibre reinforced PA66 grade with improved heat ageing properties is aimed at replacing more expensive high temperature materials, such as polyphthalimde (PPA) and Polyamide 46, in automotive under bonnet applications where temperatures can reach 200°C.

Apart from having similar heat ageing stability as PPA and PA46, BASF said the new material has much higher strength, citing a 38% improvement over 45% glass fibre reinforced PPA.

For improved flow properties, BASF has introduced its Ultramid HP (high productivity) grades. The 10% glass fibre reinforced and 20% mineral filled B3WGM24 HP grade is intended for large parts such as engine covers, providing 40% improved flow without any compromise on strength.