Patented Surface Finish Compression Molding Process Presented By ValTek

    STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., March 1 ValTek, LLC, the advanced
technology business unit of Advanced Accessory Systems (AAS) has been issued
U.S. Patent #6,132,669 for providing a new process called surface finishing
compression (SFC) molding which is capable of producing Class A surfaced parts
with structural properties.  Applications include large automotive,
recreational vehicle, truck, marine, and off-road panel parts.

    Multi-layer constructions are possible and 100% recyclable.  The film
finish and the article are compression molded simultaneously using
commercially available vertical presses.  The SFC molding process does not
require pre-formed film inserts and eliminates painting and all the associated
environmental concerns.

    ValTek has produced commercial-sized parts and has a significant database
in processing conditions and resulting physical properties.

    ValTek Technology Overview is the subject of a presentation during the SAE
2001 World Congress at Cobo Center in Detroit.  Art Delusky, technical
director of ValTek, and Dr. Stephen McCarthy, principal investigator with the
University of Massachusetts, Lowell, will provide an update on this topic
Tuesday, March 6 at 2 p.m. in Room D3-16.

    Licenses are available and include initial trials and hands-on technology
transfer.  Use of this process would be of value to end users and their
suppliers, with already established markets for large, finished structural
panel parts.

    According to Mr. Delusky, "The process is viable.  Several OEM's and
Tier 1's are moving forward with ValTek development parts, taking advantage of
new film finishes, eliminating painting.  This technology becomes most
interesting when considering new paint startups where an expensive,
complicated paint plant could be eliminated."

    Advanced Accessory Systems is a leading global supplier of roof rack
systems, towing systems and related accessories.  Headquartered in Sterling
Heights, Mich., the company has 2,200 employees in 24 facilities within 15
countries and has annual sales revenue in excess of $300 million.