Amodel PPA Specified for ABS Components
ALPHARETTA, Ga.--May 7, 2001--Engineering Resin from BP Amoco Meets Stringent Design Criteria
BP Amoco announces today that TRW Chassis Systems, Livonia, Michigan, has selected a grade of Amodel(R) polyphthalamide to manufacture its EBC325 Coil Integrated Module (CIM), a key component in automotive Antilock Braking Systems (ABS).
The CIM is also known as an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), and it attaches to and controls the hydraulic control unit of the braking system.
TRW engineers selected Amodel PPA because the material met a stringent set of design criteria. "We were looking for a material that could meet the high stiffness and strength performance requirements of our EBC325 CIM," says Paul Rea, senior product engineer for TRW Chassis Systems. "R&D testing of various thermoplastics showed that Amodel AS-1566 performed the best in thermal shock tests that used temperatures from 125(degree)C in air to 0(degree)C in water. Amodel resin has good overall material characteristics, and adhesion testing with the gasket materials we use showed good results." TRW evaluated Amodel PPA and several other competing materials in testing.
Heavy duty service conditions were another reason for selecting Amodel resin, according to TRW engineers. "This application is rated from -40(degree)C to 125(degree)C operating temperature," explains Rea. "We also have to meet various chemical exposure requirements consistent with automotive standards. Since our unit is chassis mounted in most end-use applications, we also need to be impervious to gravel bombardment, stone impingement, etc."
Amodel PPA is a unique semi-crystalline engineering polymer that bridges the cost-performance gap between traditional engineering thermoplastics, such as polycarbonate, polyamides, polyesters and acetals, and higher-cost specialty polymers, such as liquid crystal polymers, polyphenylene sulfide and polyetherimide. It has excellent mechanical properties--strength, stiffness, fatigue and creep resistance--over a broad temperature range.
About BP Amoco Polymers
BP Amoco Polymers, Inc. is a world leader in the development and manufacture of a wide range of high performance engineering polymers that are used throughout many industries. These materials can offer excellent cost-performance advantages over metals, ceramics, and many other engineering polymers. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, in the Atlanta metro area, BP Amoco Polymers serves customers worldwide through a network of sales and service offices.
For additional information, contact BP Amoco Polymers, Customer Service, 4500 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005. Phone: 800-621-4557 or 770-772-8200. E-mail: engpolymers@bp.com. Or visit our website at www.bpamocoengpolymers.com.
About TRW Chassis Systems
TRW Chassis Systems is a world leader in braking, steering and suspension systems, commercial steering, engine components and aftermarket replacement parts for the global automotive industry. TRW Inc. provides advanced technology products and services to the automotive, aerospace and information technology markets.
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